Nortec 600 Rev C PDF

NORTEC 600
Eddy Current Flaw Detector

User’s Manual
DMTA-10040-01EN — Rev. C
February 2015
This instruction manual contains essential information on how to use this Olympus product safely and effectively.
Before using this product, thoroughly review this instruction manual. Use the product as instructed.
Keep this instruction manual in a safe, accessible location.
Olympus Scientific Solutions Americas, 48 Woerd Avenue, Waltham, MA 02453,
USA
Copyright © 2014, 2015 by Olympus. All rights reserved. No part of this

publication may be reproduced, translated, or distributed without the express
written permission of Olympus.
This document was prepared with particular attention to usage to ensure the
accuracy of the information contained therein, and corresponds to the version of
the product manufactured prior to the date appearing on the title page. There
could, however, be some differences between the manual and the product if the
product was modified thereafter.
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.
Part number: DMTA-10040-01EN

Rev. C
February 2015
Printed in the United States of America
The microSD logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC.
All brands are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners and
third party entities.
DMTA-10040-01EN, Rev. C, February 2015
Table of Contents
List of Abbreviations ....................................................................................... ix
Labels and Symbols ........................................................................................... 1
Important Information — Please Read Before Use ..................................... 5

Intended Use .......................................................................................................................... 5
Instruction Manual ................................................................................................................ 5
Instrument Compatibility ..................................................................................................... 6
Repair and Modification ....................................................................................................... 7
Safety Symbols ....................................................................................................................... 7
Safety Signal Words ............................................................................................................... 8
Note Signal Words ................................................................................................................. 9
Safety ....................................................................................................................................... 9
Warnings ................................................................................................................................. 9
Battery Precautions .............................................................................................................. 10
Equipment Disposal ............................................................................................................ 11
CE (European Community) ............................................................................................... 12
WEEE Directive .................................................................................................................... 12
China RoHS .......................................................................................................................... 12
Korea Communications Commission (KCC) ................................................................... 13
EMC Directive Compliance ................................................................................................ 13
FCC (USA) Compliance ...................................................................................................... 13
ICES-001 (Canada) Compliance ........................................................................................ 14
Warranty Information ......................................................................................................... 14
Technical Support ................................................................................................................ 15
Introduction ...................................................................................................... 17
1. Instrument Overview ................................................................................ 19
Table of Contents iii

1.1 Operating Principle ................................................................................................... 19

1.2 Contents of the Case ................................................................................................. 20
1.3 Connectors ................................................................................................................. 21
1.4 Power Requirements ................................................................................................. 24
1.4.1 Charger/Adaptor ............................................................................................ 25
1.4.2 Battery Compartment .................................................................................... 28
1.4.3 Lithium-Ion Battery ....................................................................................... 29
1.4.4 Alkaline Batteries ........................................................................................... 30
1.5 Optional microSD Card Installation ....................................................................... 31
1.6 NORTEC 600 Hardware Features .......................................................................... 32
1.6.1 Hardware Overview ...................................................................................... 33
1.6.1.1 Front Panel and SmartKnob ............................................................... 34
1.6.1.2 Keypad .................................................................................................. 35
1.6.2 Connectors ....................................................................................................... 40
1.6.2.1 Probe and BNC Connectors ............................................................... 40
1.6.2.2 Input/Output (I/O) and VGA OUT Connectors .............................. 40
1.6.2.3 microSD and USB Port ........................................................................ 42
1.6.3 Various Hardware Features .......................................................................... 43
1.6.3.1 Instrument Stand ................................................................................. 43
1.6.3.2 O-Ring Gasket and Membrane Seals ................................................ 44
1.6.3.3 Display Protection ............................................................................... 44
1.6.4 Environmental Ratings .................................................................................. 44
2. Software User Interface ............................................................................ 47

2.1 Starting Up the Instrument ...................................................................................... 47
2.1.1 Navigating the Application Menu ............................................................... 48
2.1.2 Main Inspection Screen ................................................................................. 49
2.2 Selecting from the Menus ........................................................................................ 52
2.3 Displaying All Functions Simultaneously — ALL SETTINGS Menu ............... 52
2.3.1 Using the ALL SETTINGS Menu ................................................................. 53
2.3.2 Special Functions in the ALL SETTINGS Menu ........................................ 54
2.4 Displaying Real-Time Readings ............................................................................. 54
2.4.1 Enabling Real-Time Readings on the Main Inspection Screen ................ 57
2.4.2 Enabling Real-Time Readings in Full-Screen Mode
— FULL NEXT key ........................................................................................ 58
3. Initial Setup ................................................................................................ 59

3.1 Setting the User Interface Language and the Decimal Symbol .......................... 59
3.2 Setting the Clock ....................................................................................................... 60
3.3 Changing the Location of Saved Files .................................................................... 60
3.4 Changing the Display Settings ................................................................................ 61
iv Table of Contents
3.5 Changing the Display Brightness ........................................................................... 62

3.6 Adjusting Auto Erase ............................................................................................... 63
3.7 Selecting the Startup Screen .................................................................................... 63
3.8 Enabling Knobless Entry for Harsh Environments ............................................. 64
4. Control Functions ...................................................................................... 65

4.1 PowerLink .................................................................................................................. 65
4.2 Instrument Controls ................................................................................................. 66
4.2.1 Display ............................................................................................................. 67
4.2.2 Power and Lock Buttons ............................................................................... 67
4.2.3 Direct-Function Keys ..................................................................................... 67
4.2.4 Menu Keys ...................................................................................................... 73
4.2.5 Knob ................................................................................................................. 74
4.2.6 Hidden Function — Screen Capture ........................................................... 74
4.2.7 Knobless Entry ............................................................................................... 74
4.2.8 Ambidextrous Controls ................................................................................. 75
4.2.9 FULL NEXT key ............................................................................................. 76
4.3 Menus ......................................................................................................................... 78
4.3.1 Frequency (FREQ 1) Menu — MAIN FILTER Key ................................... 78
4.3.2 Filter Menu — MAIN FILTER Key .............................................................. 80
4.3.3 Special Menu — MAIN FILTER Key ........................................................... 81
4.3.4 Display Menu — DISP Key .......................................................................... 83
4.3.5 Alarm Menu — ALARM Key ...................................................................... 87
4.3.6 Memory Menu — MEM Key ........................................................................ 87
4.3.7 Memory Text Editor ....................................................................................... 92
4.3.8 Advanced Setup Menu — ADV SETUP Menu Key .................................. 94
4.4 Dual Frequency Menus .......................................................................................... 105
4.4.1 Frequency (FREQ 1) Menu — MAIN FILTER Key ................................. 105
4.4.2 Frequency (FREQ 2) Menu — MAIN FILTER Key ................................. 107
4.4.3 MIX Menu in Dual Frequency — MAIN FILTER Key ........................... 109
4.4.4 Filter Menu in Dual Frequency — MAIN FILTER Key .......................... 109
4.4.5 Special Menu in Dual Frequency — MAIN FILTER Key ....................... 110
4.4.6 Display Menu in Dual Frequency — DISP Key ...................................... 111
4.4.7 ALARM Menu in Dual Frequency — ALARM Key ............................... 114
5. Using the Instrument .............................................................................. 115

5.1 Common NORTEC 600 Applications .................................................................. 116
5.1.1 Detecting Surface-Breaking Cracks — General Purpose Procedure
for All NORTEC 600 Models ...................................................................... 116
5.1.2 Inspecting Fastener Holes with a Rotating Scanner
— NORTEC 600S and NORTEC 600D Models ........................................ 122
Table of Contents v
5.1.3
Detecting Sub-Surface Cracks at Very Low Frequency
— All NORTEC 600 Models ....................................................................... 131
5.1.4 Inspecting Welds on Ferromagnetic Materials
5.1.5 Evaluating Paint Thickness on Ferromagnetic Material
5.1.6 Measuring Conductivity and Nonconductive Coating Thickness
— NORTEC 600C, NORTEC 600S, and NORTEC 600D Models .......... 148
5.1.7 Inspecting Aircraft Wheels — All NORTEC 600 Models ....................... 155
5.1.8 Inspecting Critical Fastener Holes with a Controlled Translation
(Indexing) Scanner — NORTEC 600S and NORTEC 600D Models ..... 160
5.2 Special and Educational Applications ................................................................. 167
5.2.1 Using the Impedance Plane Theory and Display
5.2.2 Sorting Metals by Evaluating Conductivity
5.2.3 Evaluating Nonconductive Coating (Paint) Thickness
5.2.4 Evaluating Metal Thickness and Using Thickness Curve Theory
5.3 Advanced Dual Frequency Applications ............................................................ 183
5.3.1 Detecting Corrosion Using Dual Frequency to Reduce the Pillowing
Effect — NORTEC 600D Model ................................................................. 184
5.3.2 Detecting Sub-Surface Cracks Using Dual Frequency in a Lap Splice
with Anodized and Alodine Rivets — NORTEC 600D Model ............. 195
5.3.3 Inspecting Heat Exchanger Tubing Using Dual Frequency
— NORTEC 600D Model ............................................................................ 209
5.4 Alarm Menus ........................................................................................................... 222
5.4.1 Alarm DEFINE Menu .................................................................................. 222
5.4.2 Selecting the Alarm Shape and Position — Alarm 1, 2, and 3 Menus .. 224
5.4.3 SWEEP alarm ................................................................................................ 225
6. NORTEC PC Software ............................................................................ 227

6.1 Importing Files ........................................................................................................ 227
6.2 Capturing a Screen Image Using NORTEC PC .................................................. 230
6.3 Upgrading the Instrument Software Using NORTEC PC ................................ 232
6.4 Upgrading the Instrument Software without NORTEC PC ............................. 235
6.5 Creating a PDF ........................................................................................................ 237
6.6 Issuing Remote Commands to the NORTEC 600 from a PC ............................ 238
6.7 Remotely Controlling the NORTEC 600 from a PC ........................................... 248
6.8 Managing Files on the NORTEC 600 from your PC .......................................... 250
6.9 Unlocking NORTEC 600 Upgrade Options with your PC ............................... 253
vi Table of Contents
6.10 Backing Up the NORTEC 600 Files ...................................................................... 255

6.11 Restoring or Cloning the NORTEC 600 Files ...................................................... 257
7. Maintenance and Troubleshooting ...................................................... 259

7.1 Lithium-Ion Battery ................................................................................................ 259
7.2 Error Messages ........................................................................................................ 260
7.3 Probe Care and Diagnostics .................................................................................. 261
Appendix A: Specifications ......................................................................... 263

A.1 General and Environmental Specifications ......................................................... 263
A.2 Input/Output Specifications .................................................................................. 268
Appendix B: Accessories, Replacement Parts, and Upgrades ............... 271
List of Figures ................................................................................................. 275
List of Tables ................................................................................................... 283
Index ................................................................................................................. 285
Table of Contents vii

viii Table of Contents

List of Abbreviations
AC alternating current
CD-ROM compact disc read-only memory
DC direct current
EFUP environment-friendly use period
GB gigabyte
I/O input-output
ID identification
ID internal diameter
IP ingress protection
LCD liquid crystal display
LED light-emitting diode
Li-ion lithium-ion
MIL military
mil one-thousandths of one inch (0.0254 mm)
N/A not applicable
OD outside diameter
OEM original equipment manufacturer
P/N part number
PC personal computer
SD secure digital (card)
SPC statistical process control
USB universal serial bus
VGA video graphics array
WEEE waste electrical and electronic equipment
WT wall thickness
List of Abbreviations ix
x List of Abbreviations
Labels and Symbols
Safety-related labels and symbols are attached to the instrument at the locations
shown in Figure i-1 on page 1. If any or all of the labels or symbols are missing or
illegible, please contact Olympus.
Instruction and rating label (see Table 1 on page 2)
Figure i-1 Label attached to the back of the instrument
Labels and Symbols 1

Serial number location (see Table 1 on page 2)
Figure i-2 Location of the serial number
Table 1 Content of the rating label
Content
This symbol indicates the location of the membrane vent.
The direct current symbol.
The WEEE symbol indicates that the product must not be

disposed of as unsorted municipal waste, but should be
collected separately.
2 Labels and Symbols

Table 1 Content of the rating label (continued)
The regulatory compliance mark (RCM) label indicates that

the product complies with all applicable standards, and has
been registered with the Australian Communications and
Media Authority (ACMA) for placement on the Australian
market.
Seller and user shall be noticed that this equipment is suitable

for electromagnetic equipment for office work (class A) and it
can be used outside home. The MSIP code for the
NORTEC 600 is the following: MSIP-REM-OYN-N600.
The CE marking is a declaration that this product conforms to

all the applicable directives of the European Community. See
the Declaration of Conformity for details. Contact your Olympus
representative for more information.
The China RoHS mark indicates the product’s Environment-

Friendly Use Period (EFUP). The EFUP is defined as the
number of years for which listed controlled substances will not
leak or chemically deteriorate while in the product. The EFUP
for the NORTEC 600 has been determined to be 15 years. Note:
The Environment-Friendly Use Period (EFUP) is not meant to
be interpreted as the period assuring functionality and
product performance.
SERIAL The serial number is a nine (9) digit number in the following
format:
yynnnddmm
where:
yy Production year
nnn Unit number manufactured that day
dd Production day
mm Production month
For example, the 130050609 serial number indicates that the
fifth unit (005) was produced on 6 September 2013.
Labels and Symbols 3

4 Labels and Symbols

Important Information — Please Read Before Use
Intended Use
The NORTEC 600 is designed to perform nondestructive inspections on industrial

and commercial materials.
WARNING
Do not use the NORTEC 600 for any purpose other than its intended use. It must
never be used to inspect or examine human or animal body parts.
Instruction Manual
This instruction manual contains essential information on how to use this Olympus
product safely and effectively. Before using this product, thoroughly review this
instruction manual. Use the product as instructed.
Keep this instruction manual in a safe, accessible location.
Important Information — Please Read Before Use 5

IMPORTANT
Some of the details of components illustrated in this manual may differ from the
components installed on your instrument. However, the operating principles remain
the same.
Instrument Compatibility
Only use the NORTEC 600 instrument with the following ancillary equipment:
• Rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack (Olympus P/N: 600-BAT-L-3

[U8051431])
• Optional stand-alone external battery charger (Olympus P/N: EPXT-EC-X
[U8767043]), where “X” denotes the power cord type (see Table 10 on page 272).
• Charger/adaptor (Olympus P/N: EP-MCA-X), where “X” denotes the power cord
type (see Table 9 on page 271).
NOTE
See “Accessories, Replacement Parts, and Upgrades” on page 271 for more details
about accessories.
CAUTION
Always use equipment and accessories that meet Olympus specifications. Using
incompatible equipment could cause equipment malfunction and/or damage, or
human injury.
The following rotating scanners are compatible with the NORTEC 600S and
NORTEC 600D instrument models:
• MiniMite
• Spitfire
6 Important Information — Please Read Before Use

• RA-2000 (replaces the RA-19 scanner, which became obsoleted in 2002. The RA-19
scanner is NOT compatible with the NORTEC 500 or NORTEC 600 instrument
series)
• PS5
• GE Hocking MiniDrive
• Rohmann Elotest MR3 scanner
IMPORTANT
ANY other scanner not listed here has not been tested and is NOT supported at the
time of publication of this manual.
Repair and Modification
The NORTEC 600 does not contain any user-serviceable parts. Opening the
instrument might void the warranty.
CAUTION
In order to prevent human injury and/or equipment damage, do not disassemble,
modify, or attempt to repair the instrument.
Safety Symbols
The following safety symbols might appear on the instrument and in the instruction
manual:
General warning symbol

This symbol is used to alert the user to potential hazards. All safety messages that
follow this symbol shall be obeyed to avoid possible harm or material damage.

High voltage warning symbol

This symbol is used to alert the user to potential electric shock hazards greater
than 1000 volts. All safety messages that follow this symbol shall be obeyed to
avoid possible harm.
Safety Signal Words
The following safety symbols might appear in the documentation of the instrument:
DANGER
The DANGER signal word indicates an imminently hazardous situation. It calls

attention to a procedure, practice, or the like, which, if not correctly performed or
adhered to, will result in death or serious personal injury. Do not proceed beyond a
DANGER signal word until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.
WARNING
The WARNING signal word indicates a potentially hazardous situation. It calls

attention to a procedure, practice, or the like, which, if not correctly performed or
adhered to, could result in death or serious personal injury. Do not proceed beyond a
WARNING signal word until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.
CAUTION
The CAUTION signal word indicates a potentially hazardous situation. It calls

attention to an operating procedure, practice, or the like, which, if not correctly
performed or adhered to, may result in minor or moderate personal injury, material
damage, particularly to the product, destruction of part or all of the product, or loss of
data. Do not proceed beyond a CAUTION signal word until the indicated conditions
are fully understood and met.

Note Signal Words
The following safety symbols could appear in the documentation of the instrument:
IMPORTANT
The IMPORTANT signal word calls attention to a note that provides important
information, or information essential to the completion of a task.
NOTE
The NOTE signal word calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or the like,
which requires special attention. A note also denotes related parenthetical
information that is useful, but not imperative.
TIP
The TIP signal word calls attention to a type of note that helps you apply the
techniques and procedures described in the manual to your specific needs, or
provides hints on how to effectively use the capabilities of the product.
Safety
Before turning on the instrument, verify that the correct safety precautions have been
taken (see the following warnings). In addition, note the external markings on the
instrument, which are described under “Safety Symbols.”
Warnings
WARNING
General Warnings
• Carefully read the instructions contained in this instruction manual prior to
turning on the instrument.
• Keep this instruction manual in a safe place for further reference.

• Follow the installation and operation procedures.

• It is imperative to respect the safety warnings on the instrument and in this
instruction manual.
• If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the
protection provided by the equipment could be impaired.
• Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification to the
instrument.
• Service instructions, when applicable, are for trained service personnel. To avoid
the risk of electric shock, do not perform any work on the instrument unless
qualified to do so. For any problem or question regarding this instrument, contact
Olympus or an authorized Olympus representative.
• Do not touch the connectors directly by hand. Otherwise, a malfunction or electric
shock may result.
• Do not allow metallic or foreign objects to enter the device through connectors or
any other openings. Otherwise, a malfunction or electric shock may result.
WARNING
Electrical Warning
The instrument must only be connected to a power source corresponding to the type
indicated on the rating label.
CAUTION
If a nonapproved power supply cord not dedicated to Olympus products is used,

Olympus will not be able to ensure the electrical safety of the equipment.
Battery Precautions
CAUTION
• Before disposing of a battery, check your local laws, rules, and regulations, and
follow them accordingly.

• Transportation of lithium-ion batteries is regulated by the United Nations under

the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. It is
expected that governments, intergovernmental organizations, and other
international organizations shall conform to the principles laid down in these
regulations, thus contributing to worldwide harmonization in this field. These
international organizations include the International Civil Aviation organization
(ICAO), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the International
Maritime Organization (IMO), the US Department of Transportation (USDOT),
Transport Canada (TC), and others. Please contact the transporter and confirm
current regulations before transportation of lithium-ion batteries.
• Do not open, crush, or perforate batteries; doing so could cause injury.
• Do not incinerate batteries. Keep batteries away from fire and other sources of
extreme heat. Exposing batteries to extreme heat (over 80 °C) could result in an
explosion or personal injury.
• Do not drop, hit, or otherwise abuse a battery, as doing so could expose the cell
contents, which are corrosive and explosive.
• Do not short-circuit the battery terminals. A short circuit could cause injury and
severe damage to a battery making it unusable.
• Do not expose a battery to moisture or rain; doing so could cause an electric
shock.
• Only use the NORTEC 600 unit or an external charger approved by Olympus to
charge the batteries.
• Only use batteries supplied by Olympus.
• Do not store batteries that have less than 40 % remaining charge. Recharge
batteries to between 40 % and 80 % capacity before storing them.
• During storage, keep the battery charge between 40 % and 80 %.
• Do not leave batteries in the NORTEC 600 unit during instrument storage.
Equipment Disposal
Before disposing of the NORTEC 600, check your local laws, rules, and regulations,
and follow them accordingly.

CE (European Community)
This device complies with the requirements of both directive

2004/108/EC concerning electromagnetic compatibility and directive
2006/95/EC concerning low voltage. The CE marking indicates
compliance with the above directives.
WEEE Directive
In accordance with European Directive 2012/19/EU on Waste Electrical

and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), this symbol indicates that the
product must not be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste, but
should be collected separately. Refer to your local Olympus distributor
for return and/or collection systems available in your country.
China RoHS
China RoHS is the term used by industry generally to describe legislation

implemented by the Ministry of Information Industry (MII) in the People’s Republic
of China for the control of pollution by electronic information products (EIP).
The China RoHS mark indicates the product’s Environment-

Friendly Use Period (EFUP). The EFUP is defined as the number of
years for which listed controlled substances will not leak or
chemically deteriorate while in the product. The EFUP for the
NORTEC 600 has been determined to be 15 years.
Note: The Environment-Friendly Use Period (EFUP) is not meant
to be interpreted as the period assuring functionality and product
performance.

Korea Communications Commission (KCC)
A 급 기기 ( 업무용 방송통신기자재 )
이 기기는 업무용 (A 급 ) 전자파적합기기로서 판 매자 또는 사용자는 이 점을주의하시

기 바라 며 , 가정외의 지역에서 사용하는 것을 목적으로 합니다 .
EMC Directive Compliance
This equipment generates and uses radio-frequency energy and, if not installed and
used properly (that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions), may
cause interference. The NORTEC 600 has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for an industrial device in accordance with the specifications of the EMC
directive.
FCC (USA) Compliance
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.

2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, might cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference, in which case you will be required to correct the interference at your own
expense.

ICES-001 (Canada) Compliance
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-001.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-001 du Canada.
Warranty Information
Olympus guarantees your Olympus product to be free from defects in materials and
workmanship for a specific period, and in accordance with conditions specified in the
Olympus Scientific Solutions Americas Inc. Terms and Conditions available at
http://www.olympus-ims.com/en/terms/.
The Olympus warranty only covers equipment that has been used in a proper
manner, as described in this instruction manual, and that has not been subjected to
excessive abuse, attempted unauthorized repair, or modification.
Inspect materials thoroughly on receipt for evidence of external or internal damage

that might have occurred during shipment. Immediately notify the carrier making the
delivery of any damage, because the carrier is normally liable for damage during
shipment. Retain packing materials, waybills, and other shipping documentation
needed in order to file a damage claim. After notifying the carrier, contact Olympus
for assistance with the damage claim and equipment replacement, if necessary.
This instruction manual explains the proper operation of your Olympus product. The
information contained herein is intended solely as a teaching aid, and shall not be
used in any particular application without independent testing and/or verification by
the operator or the supervisor. Such independent verification of procedures becomes
increasingly important as the criticality of the application increases. For this reason,
Olympus makes no warranty, expressed or implied, that the techniques, examples, or
procedures described herein are consistent with industry standards, nor that they
meet the requirements of any particular application.
Olympus reserves the right to modify any product without incurring the
responsibility for modifying previously manufactured products.

Technical Support
Olympus is firmly committed to providing the highest level of customer service and
product support. If you experience any difficulties when using our product, or if it
fails to operate as described in the documentation, first consult the user’s manual, and
then, if you are still in need of assistance, contact our After-Sales Service. To locate the
nearest service center, visit the Service Centers page at: http://www.olympus-
ims.com.


Introduction
This user’s manual provides operating instructions for the Olympus NORTEC 600
instrument, which uses eddy currents to detect surface flaws in various types of
metals (see Figure i-3 on page 17). The information in this manual is organized to
explain the technology, safety details, hardware, and software. Practical inspection
examples help the user become familiar with the instrument’s capabilities.
Figure i-3 The NORTEC 600 instrument
Introduction 17
18 Introduction
1. Instrument Overview
This chapter provides a brief overview of the Olympus NORTEC 600 eddy current
flaw detector, and includes the principle of operation, accessories, and all common
operational requirements.
1.1 Operating Principle
The NORTEC 600 is a small, lightweight flaw detector designed to make fast,
accurate, and repeatable measurements on conductive materials such as aluminum,
copper, stainless steel, steel, and titanium.
The NORTEC 600 uses electromagnetic induction to detect flaws in conductive

materials. Electromagnetic induction is achieved with a coil that carries a current and
that is placed in proximity to the test material. The alternating current in the coil
generates a changing magnetic field that interacts with the test material and causes
eddy currents. Variations in the phase and magnitude of these eddy currents are
monitored. Variations in the electrical conductivity or magnetic permeability of the
test object, or the presence of any flaws, will cause a change in eddy current and a
corresponding change in the phase and amplitude of the measured current.
Eddy current testing can detect very small cracks in or near the surface of non-ferrous
material, and it is also useful for making electrical conductivity and coating thickness
measurements. The surfaces being tested need minimal preparation.
Instrument Overview 19
1.2 Contents of the Case
The NORTEC 600 comes with several key accessories (see Figure 1-1 on page 21):
• ISO-15548 certificate or calibration certificate (short form of the ISO-15548)

(Olympus P/N: 7922035 [U8030145]).
• Charger/adaptor (Olympus P/N: EP-MCA-X), where “X” denotes the AC power
cord type (see Table 10 on page 272).
• AC power cord
• Getting Started leaflet (Olympus P/N: DMTA-10039-01YY), where “YY” denotes
the language (see Table 13 on page 273 for order numbers).
• NORTEC 600 User’s Manual and PC interface program on CD-ROM (Olympus
P/N: N600-CD [U8030151])
• Instrument transport case (P/N: 600-TC [U8780294])
• Universal PowerLink eddy current probe cable (Olympus P/N: 9122083
[U8800073])
• microSD memory card 2 GB (1 internal, 1 external) (Olympus P/N: MICROSD-
ADP-2GB [U8779307])
• USB 2.0 (mini-AB) to PC cable (Olympus P/N: EPLTC-C-USB-A-6 [U8840031])
• 67 watt-hour battery for 600 Series products; 10.8 V, 6.2 Ah, 67 Wh (Olympus
P/N: 600-BAT-L-3 [U8051431])
• AA battery holder (tray) for emergency use (Olympus P/N: 600-BAT-AA
[U8780295])
• Factory-installed hand strap on left side of NORTEC 600 instrument
(Olympus P/N: 38DLP-HS [U8779371])
20 Chapter 1
Getting Started leaflet and calibration

certificate
User’s manual and PC interface program
on CD-ROM
AC power cord and

Li-ion battery
probe cable
microSD memory card

Charger/adaptor
and USB to PC cable
NORTEC 600 unit

Transport case (may
differ from your model,
depending on image
available at time of
publication)
Figure 1-1 Transport case contents
A list of optional accessories available from Olympus can be found in “Accessories,

Replacement Parts, and Upgrades” on page 271.
1.3 Connectors
Figure 1-2 on page 22 illustrates the connections of the NORTEC 600 instrument with
the charger/adaptor, the microSD card, and a PC.
DC power plug
EP-MCA-X
charger/adaptor microSD card
USB to PC
To power
outlet
AC power cord
Figure 1-2 The NORTEC 600 connections
WARNING
Use only the AC power cord supplied with your instrument, unless specifically
instructed in the manual. Using an unauthorized power cord may result in damage to
instruments or serious injury to the user.
The DC power, PROBE, and BNC connectors are located on the top end of the
NORTEC 600 (see Figure 1-3 on page 22).
DC power connector
PROBE connector BNC connector

(16-pin LEMO)
Figure 1-3 The top end connectors
22 Chapter 1
CAUTION
Do not allow metallic or foreign objects to enter the device through connectors or any
other openings. Otherwise, an electric shock or malfunction may result.
The USB port and the removable microSD memory card slot are located on the right-
hand side of the instrument, hidden behind the input/output (I/O) door (see
Figure 1-4 on page 23).
I/O door
Removable microSD card slot

microSD card
USB port
Figure 1-4 The connectors behind the input/output (I/O) door
The I/O and the VGA OUT connectors are located at the back of the instrument, in the
upper section (see Figure 1-5 on page 24). A rubber cover protects each connector.
VGA OUT connector I/O connector
Figure 1-5 The VGA OUT and I/O connectors
1.4 Power Requirements
The NORTEC 600 is designed to operate using three power supply methods:
• Directly from the NORTEC 600 charger/adaptor

• Internal lithium-ion battery
• Internal alkaline battery holder
Press the power button ( ) to turn on the NORTEC 600 (see Figure 1-6 on page 25).
Pressing this button once causes an initial beep, which is followed by the instrument
startup screen, and then a second beep approximately five seconds later.
24 Chapter 1
Charger/adaptor
indicator light
Power button
Figure 1-6 Location of the NORTEC 600 power button and indicator light
1.4.1 Charger/Adaptor
A NORTEC 600 charger/adaptor is provided with every instrument. This
charger/adaptor is the primary method for powering the NORTEC 600, with or
without a battery installed. It is also used to charge the lithium-ion rechargeable
battery when it is installed in the instrument. A charger/adaptor indicator light on the
front panel of the unit displays the current status of the charger/adaptor (see
Figure 1-6 on page 25 and Figure 1-7 on page 25).
Figure 1-7 The charger/adaptor indicator light on the front panel
WARNING
Use only the power cord supplied with your instrument, unless specifically instructed
in the manual. Using an unauthorized power cord may result in damage to
instruments or serious injury to the user.
WARNING
The NORTEC 600 charger/adaptor (P/N: EP-MCA-X) is designed to power the

NORTEC 600 and charge the lithium-ion battery only (P/N: 600-BAT-L-3 [U8051431]).
Do not attempt to charge any other types of batteries, including alkaline batteries in
the battery holder (P/N: 600-BAT-AA [U8780295]), and do not attempt to use any
other charger/adaptor. Doing so might cause an explosion or injury.
Do not attempt to power or charge other electronic equipment with the

charger/adaptor (P/N: EP-MCA-X), unless specifically instructed in the manual.
Misuse of the charger/adaptor can cause other batteries and/or instruments to
explode, which could lead to serious injury or death.
To connect the charger/adaptor

1. Connect the AC power cord to the charger/adaptor and to an appropriate power
outlet (see Figure 1-8 on page 26).
DC power connector
EP-MCA-X
charger/adaptor
AC power cord
To power outlet
Figure 1-8 Connecting the charger/adaptor
26 Chapter 1
2. Lift the rubber seal that covers the DC connector on top of the NORTEC 600.
3. Connect the DC output power cable from the charger/adaptor to the DC power
connector on top of the NORTEC 600 (see Figure 1-9 on page 27).
DC power cable from the

charger/adaptor
DC power connector
(rubber seal not shown)
Figure 1-9 Connecting the DC power cable
Table 2 on page 27 explains the indicators for the power status of the charger/adaptor
and the battery charge condition, which are visible at the top of the front panel and in
the user interface.
Table 2 Charger/adaptor and battery indicators
Charger/adaptor AC line power Battery

Indicator meaning
indicator light connected indicator
Red Yes Internal battery is charging.
Off No Charger/adaptor is not connected.
Table 2 Charger/adaptor and battery indicators (continued)
Charger/adaptor AC line power Battery

Indicator meaning
indicator light connected indicator
Charger/adaptor is connected, but

no battery is installed.
Green Yes
OR
Internal battery is fully charged.
1.4.2 Battery Compartment

The NORTEC 600 battery compartment cover allows you to quickly access the battery
(or AA batteries in the alkaline battery holder) without the need for tools. Two thumb
screws on the battery compartment cover secure it to the instrument case and ensure
the compartment is sealed.
The battery compartment cover also has a small hole in the bottom center area that is
covered on the inside by an environmentally sealed membrane vent. This vent is a
safety feature that is required in the event that the instrument battery fails and emits
gas. This vent must not be punctured.
Thumb screws (two)
Battery compartment
cover
Membrane vent
hole
Figure 1-10 The battery compartment
28 Chapter 1
The NORTEC 600 accepts one rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack (Olympus
P/N: 600-BAT-L-3 [U8051431]) that can be recharged inside the instrument or on the
optional external charging base (Olympus P/N: EPXT-EC-X [U8767043]). You can also
use the NORTEC 600 with eight standard AA-size alkaline batteries installed in an
alkaline battery holder (Olympus P/N: 600-BAT-AA [U8780295]) for extended
portable use.
WARNING
If the NORTEC 600 is to be used with a rechargeable battery, only use the Olympus
battery, P/N: 600-BAT-L-3 [U8051431]. Using any other type of battery might cause an
explosion and injury.
1.4.3 Lithium-Ion Battery

The NORTEC 600 is normally used as a portable instrument powered by the lithium-
ion battery and recharged via the charger/adaptor (both are supplied with the
NORTEC 600). When properly maintained, and when the instrument is operated
under typical inspection conditions, the lithium-ion battery should provide between 8
and 10 hours of continuous operation if a rotating scanner is not connected. If an
Olympus rotating scanner is connected, the NORTEC 600 should provide between 6
and 8 hours of continuous operation.
IMPORTANT
The lithium-ion battery is not fully charged when the instrument is shipped. You
must charge the battery for two to three hours before using battery power to operate
the instrument (see “Charger/Adaptor” on page 25).
To install or replace the lithium-ion battery

1. Unfold the instrument stand (see Figure 1-11 on page 30).
2. At the back of the instrument, loosen the two thumb screws securing the battery
compartment cover.
3. Remove the battery compartment cover.
4. Remove the battery and/or install the new battery in the battery compartment.
5. Check the cover gasket to make sure it is clean and in good condition.
6. Install the battery compartment cover at the back of the instrument, and then
tighten the two thumb screws to complete the installation.
Stand
Thumb screws
(two)
Battery
compartment
cover
Battery
Figure 1-11 Removing the lithium-ion battery
1.4.4 Alkaline Batteries

The NORTEC 600 includes a battery holder (Olympus P/N: 600-BAT-AA [U8780295]).
This holder accommodates eight AA-size alkaline batteries for situations where an
AC power source is not available and the internal Li-ion battery is discharged. When
operated under typical inspection conditions, the alkaline batteries typically provide
three hours of continuous operation.
To install the alkaline battery holder

1. Unfold the instrument stand (see Figure 1-12 on page 31).
2. Loosen the two thumb screws securing the battery compartment cover at the back
of the instrument, and then remove the battery compartment cover.
3. Remove the lithium-ion battery, if installed.
4. Install eight AA-size alkaline batteries into the alkaline battery holder.
5. Connect the alkaline battery holder connector to the instrument.
30 Chapter 1
6. Position the alkaline battery holder in the battery compartment.
Stand
Battery holder
with alkaline
batteries (eight)
Battery holder
connector
Thumb screws
(two)
Battery compartment cover
Figure 1-12 The alkaline battery holder
7. Install the battery compartment cover at the back of the instrument, and then
tighten the two thumb screws.
NOTE
When alkaline batteries are installed in the instrument, the battery indicator in the
user interface displays ALK. The charger/adaptor does not recharge the batteries
installed in the alkaline battery holder.
1.5 Optional microSD Card Installation
A 2 GB microSD card (Olympus P/N: MICROSD-ADP-2GB [U8779307]) can be

installed in the NORTEC 600 instrument.
To install the microSD removable memory card

1. Remove the card from its packaging.
2. Loosen the two thumb screws, and then open the NORTEC 600 I/O door (see
Thumb screws (two)
microSD card microSD card slot
USB port
Figure 1-13 Installing the microSD card
3. Hold the card so that the microSD label faces toward the rear of the instrument.
4. Gently slide the card into the microSD slot until it clicks.
NOTE
To remove the microSD card, gently push the card into the instrument and release. A
spring-loaded mechanism will partially eject the card, and then you can grasp the
card and remove it from the instrument.
1.6 NORTEC 600 Hardware Features
The NORTEC 600 instrument has many physical features that are either completely
new or improvements of features on older NORTEC 500 models. It is important to
become familiar with the use and maintenance of these items.
32 Chapter 1
1.6.1 Hardware Overview

Figure 1-14 on page 33 and Figure 1-15 on page 34 show the main components on the
NORTEC 600 instrument.
Protective rubber bumpers

D-rings to attach the
optional chest harness
(at the four corners)
Knob (SmartKnob)
Display window
(screen)
Keypad
Figure 1-14 Overview of the NORTEC 600 hardware — Front view
DC power connector PROBE connector
BNC connector
Battery compartment
I/O door cover
Membrane vent
Stand
Figure 1-15 Overview of the NORTEC 600 hardware — Back view
1.6.1.1 Front Panel and SmartKnob

The SmartKnob is an important feature of the NORTEC 600 instrument, and it is the
primary method used to change different parameters within a menu. In this manual,
the term “knob” is also used to refer to the SmartKnob.
The NORTEC 600 front panel features direct-function keys that are used in
combination with the SmartKnob to provide direct access to menus and common
parameters, and to enable easy adjustment of values (see Figure 1-16 on page 35).
34 Chapter 1
Display window (screen)

Charger/adaptor
indicator
SmartKnob
FULL NEXT key
Function keys
Direct-function
keys
Power button
Menu keys
Figure 1-16 The NORTEC 600 front panel with SmartKnob and keypad
1.6.1.2 Keypad
The NORTEC 600 is available with an English, Chinese, Japanese, or international
keypad configuration (see Figure 1-17 on page 36 to Figure 1-20 on page 37, and
Table 3 on page 38). The text labels on some keys may be replaced by pictograms,
depending on the keypad configuration. In this document, keys are referred to using
the English label, which indicates its function. The keys are used to select menu items
or screen parameters and to change parameter values.
Figure 1-17 The NORTEC 600 English keypad
Figure 1-18 The NORTEC 600 Chinese keypad
36 Chapter 1
Figure 1-19 The NORTEC 600 Japanese keypad
Figure 1-20 The NORTEC 600 international keypad
Table 3 Keypad functions
International
Function
keypad Function description
name
symbol
Enter The Enter key is used to make selections.
Return The Return (or Back) key is used to exit a

menu and return to a previous screen.
A-LIFT NULL If this direct-function key is pressed once, it

nulls (zeros) the instrument. If this key is
pressed and held, the Auto Liftoff is set.
GAIN Direct-function key used to display either

the instrument’s combined horizontal and
vertical gain settings, horizontal gain only,
or vertical gain only.
ERASE Direct-function key used to erase the

currently displayed image.
ANGLE Direct-function key used to display the

angle.
FREEZE Direct-function key used to freeze the

image displayed on the instrument for
further evaluation. When the image is
frozen, the NORTEC 600 also allows
calibrating the eddy current signals, and
changing the gains or angle.
REF SAVE Direct-function key used to save images

and settings in the instrument’s memory.
When this key is pressed once (and
released), the currently displayed image
and settings are saved. When this key is
pressed and held, the current instrument
image is set as the reference memory
display.
38 Chapter 1
Table 3 Keypad functions (continued)
International
Function
keypad Function description
name
symbol
MAIN FILTER Provides access to the main menu, which

controls functions such as frequency, gain,
angle, and filters.
DISP Provides access to the display menu, which

controls functions such as display mode,
position, trace, and grid.
ALARM Provides access to the alarm menu, which

controls functions such as alarm type,
dwell time, horn volume, and alarm
position.
MEM Provides access to the memory menu,

which controls functions such as
previewing stored memory files, recalling
and editing stored files, capture mode,
capture time, and user information.
ADV SETUP Provides access to the instrument’s

advanced settings, including the
application selection menu, the ALL
SETTINGS menu, frequency mode, colors,
password, systems setup, reset, unlock
options, and legal/regulatory information.
FULL NEXT Used to expand the instrument display to

full screen, or to select items in the menu.
A A Function key
B B Function key
C C Function key
D D Function key
E E Function key
1.6.2 Connectors
The NORTEC 600 instrument contains several types of connectors for hardware
components.
1.6.2.1 Probe and BNC Connectors

The NORTEC 600 instrument is supplied with a 16-pin LEMO (PROBE) connector
and a BNC connector.
The PROBE (LEMO) and BNC connectors are located at the top of the instrument, on
the left-hand side. The two connectors are easily accessible from the front of the
instrument (see Figure 1-21 on page 40).
PROBE connector BNC connector
Figure 1-21 Location of the PROBE (LEMO) and BNC connectors
CAUTION
Do not allow metallic or foreign objects to enter the device through connectors or any
other openings. Otherwise, an electric shock or malfunction may result.
1.6.2.2 Input/Output (I/O) and VGA OUT Connectors

The I/O and the VGA OUT connectors are located at the back of the instrument, in the
upper section (see Figure 1-22 on page 41). A rubber cover protects each connector.
40 Chapter 1
Figure 1-22 The VGA OUT and I/O connectors
The VGA OUT connector allows the user to connect the instrument to a standard
analog computer monitor. The I/O connector is used to connect an external horn or, if
necessary, to connect an external control for integrating the NORTEC 600 into a
system. For PC communication details, see “microSD and USB Port” on page 42.
CAUTION
Do not expose the instrument to harsh and wet environments while the I/O or the
VGA OUT connectors are not protected by their rubber covers. To prevent connector
corrosion and damage to the instrument, keep the rubber protective covers on the
connectors when no cable is connected.
1.6.2.3 microSD and USB Port

On the right-hand side of the NORTEC 600, a door covers the microSD slot and the
USB port (see Figure 1-23 on page 42). The I/O door closes against an integral
membrane seal to keep liquids away from the unsealed connectors behind the door.
The NORTEC 600 utilizes 2 GB microSD memory cards for both onboard and
removable memory. The onboard 2 GB microSD card is mounted on the PC board
inside the instrument, and is responsible for all onboard data storage. In the event the
instrument is damaged beyond repair, this microSD card can be removed at an
authorized service center, allowing you to recover critical data from the damaged
instrument.
The NORTEC 600 allows the user to connect the instrument to a PC via the USB port.
PC communication requires the interface program (Olympus P/N: N600-CD
[U8030151]) provided with the instrument for file transfers. The NORTEC 600 can
also communicate directly with other SPC programs.
Thumb screws (two)
microSD card slot
USB port
Figure 1-23 The microSD slot and USB port
The I/O door is kept closed by two thumb screws. You can also use a coin or a
screwdriver to manipulate these thumb screws as needed.
42 Chapter 1
CAUTION
Do not expose the instrument to harsh and wet environments while the I/O door is
open. To prevent connector corrosion and damage to the instrument, keep the I/O
door closed and sealed when no cable is connected.
1.6.3 Various Hardware Features

The NORTEC 600 instrument’s physical features make it suitable for a variety of
operating environments.
1.6.3.1 Instrument Stand

The NORTEC 600 features an articulating stand for variable viewing angles (see
Figure 1-24 on page 43). The stand is attached to the back of the instrument with two
hard pivot blocks. There is a high-friction coating on the stand surface to help prevent
it from sliding. The stand is bent in the center to easily accommodate being placed on
a curved surface.
Figure 1-24 Instrument stand
1.6.3.2 O-Ring Gasket and Membrane Seals

The NORTEC 600 contains seals that protect the instrument’s internal hardware from
the environment:
• Battery compartment cover seal

• I/O door seal
• Membrane vent
These seals must be properly maintained to assure environmental durability.
Instrument seals are evaluated and replaced as needed during the instrument annual
calibration. This should be performed at an authorized Olympus service center.
1.6.3.3 Display Protection

The NORTEC 600 includes a clear plastic sheet protecting the instrument display
window. Olympus strongly recommends leaving this protection sheet in place.
Replacements are available in packages of ten sheets (Olympus P/N: 600-DP
[U8780297]).
CAUTION
The display window is permanently bonded to the instrument case to fully seal the
instrument. If the display window becomes damaged, the front part of the case must
be replaced, along with the instrument’s keypad.
1.6.4 Environmental Ratings

The NORTEC 600 is an extremely rugged and durable instrument that can be used in
harsh environments. To classify the instrument’s durability in wet or damp
environments, Olympus has adopted the IP (ingress protection) system to rate how
well the instrument is sealed.
The NORTEC 600 is designed and manufactured to meet the requirements of the IP66
ingress protection rating. To maintain this level of protection, you are responsible for
the proper care of all routinely exposed membrane seals. Additionally, you are
responsible for returning the instrument to an authorized Olympus service center
each year to ensure that the instrument seals are properly maintained. Olympus
44 Chapter 1
cannot guarantee any level of ingress protection performance once the instrument
seals have been manipulated. You must use sound judgment and take proper
precautions before exposing the instrument to harsh environments.
The NORTEC 600 adheres to the environmental standards listed in Table 6 on

page 263.
46 Chapter 1
2. Software User Interface
This chapter explains the main software screens and menus on the NORTEC 600
instrument. The back of the NORTEC 600 contains a quick guide to the instrument
keypad and functions (see Figure 2-1 on page 47).
Figure 2-1 The instrument label showing keypad functions
2.1 Starting Up the Instrument
When power is turned on, the NORTEC 600 starts up in one of two modes, depending
on what is connected to the instrument.
If no probe is connected, or if a probe that is not a PowerLink type of probe is

connected, the first screen displayed by the NORTEC 600 software is the application
quick-setup menu (see Figure 2-2 on page 48). Choose from among the basic
applications on this menu to automatically configure the appropriate instruments
settings. For more details on the application quick-setup menu, see “Common
NORTEC 600 Applications” on page 116.
Software User Interface 47

Figure 2-2 Application choices on the quick-setup menu
NOTE
The NORTEC 600 applications are designed for quick setup of the instrument.
However, always follow published maintenance procedures when inspecting.
2.1.1 Navigating the Application Menu

Navigating the menu is designed to be intuitive, and the settings for each application
will permit immediate inspection; little or no additional instrument setup is needed.
To navigate the application menu

1. Rotate the knob to highlight one of the eight applications.
2. Press the Enter key ( ) to select the application.

OR
Press the Return key ( ) to go back to the NORTEC 600 main screen.
Alternatively, if a PowerLink probe is connected to the instrument when it is turned
on, the NORTEC 600 starts up in the PowerLink recognition screen (see Figure 2-3 on
page 49).
48 Chapter 2
Figure 2-3 The PowerLink recognition screen
To navigate the application menu for PowerLink

 In the PowerLink recognition screen, load the program stored in the PowerLink
probe by pressing the A key.
You can use the KEEP LAST SETTINGS function to load the previous
parameters if they are compatible with the probe or accessory that is detected.
This automatically sets up the instrument.
OR
 Bypass the stored program in the probe and gain access to the instrument’s main
inspection screen by pressing the Return key ( ).
2.1.2 Main Inspection Screen

After the initial steps are completed through the quick-setup menu or PowerLink
menu, the main inspection screen is displayed (see Figure 2-4 on page 50).

Figure 2-4 The main inspection screen
The battery power indicator remains visible at the top of the screen, except when in
full-screen mode (see Table 2 on page 27 for details). The time and date also remain
visible, except when in full-screen mode.
The rectangular readout in the top-left corner of the screen is called the quick-access
bar (see Figure 2-5 on page 51). It displays either the instrument combined horizontal
and vertical gain settings, horizontal gain only, vertical gain only, or angle setting
when the GAIN ( ) or ANGLE ( ) direct-function keys are pressed. The

quick-access bar remains visible until any other key is pressed.
50 Chapter 2
Quick-access bar
Real-time readings bar
Operation menu
(instrument settings)
FULL NEXT key
Function keys
Direct-function
keys
Menu keys
Figure 2-5 The NORTEC 600 front panel and main inspection screen
The real-time readings bar displays user-configurable readings (measurements) [see

Figure 2-5 on page 51]. It can display a maximum of two real-time readings from
among the available choices. The real-time readings bar can be set to display one or
two readings, or it can be disabled. For more information, see “Displaying Real-Time
Readings” on page 54.
The instrument settings are displayed on the right hand side of the main screen. The
displayed settings information can change, depending on the menu key that is
pressed. The menu keys are the five keys located at the bottom of the front panel:
MAIN FILTER ( ), DISP ( ), ALARM ( ), MEM ( ), and ADV SETUP
( ), as shown in Figure 2-5 on page 51.
The microSD memory card can be inserted into a slot that is located behind the I/O
door on the right-hand side of the instrument (see Figure 1-23 on page 42). Depending
on the context and on the available functions and options, various indicators and
numeric values appear on the screen and around the main measurement value (see

2.2 Selecting from the Menus
The NORTEC 600 menu keys at the bottom of the front panel are MAIN FILTER
( ), DISP ( ), ALARM ( ), MEM ( ), and ADV SETUP ( ). These

keys provide access to the operation menu. This menu appears at the right-hand side
of the screen (see Figure 2-5 on page 51). If applicable, pressing a menu key again will
display a secondary menu with parameters available for that key.
To select from a menu

1. Press one of the menu keys located at the bottom of the front panel to display a
menu: MAIN FILTER ( ), DISP ( ), ALARM ( ), MEM ( ), or
ADV SETUP ( ).
Pressing the same menu key again will cycle through the available options and
update the available functions which can then be adjusted.
2. Select the function to be changed by pressing the function key (A, B, C, D, or E)
located next to the function, which highlights the selected function.
Rotating the knob changes the function‘s value. The value selected with the knob
is automatically entered.
2.3 Displaying All Functions Simultaneously — ALL SETTINGS Menu
As an alternative to the operation menu, the NORTEC 600 has the option of
displaying all functions simultaneously using the ALL SETTINGS menu. The ALL
SETTINGS menu consists of three main elements: the title bar, the parameters, and
the help text (see Figure 2-6 on page 53).
52 Chapter 2
Parameters
Title bar
Help text
Figure 2-6 The ALL SETTINGS menu
2.3.1 Using the ALL SETTINGS Menu
The ALL SETTINGS menu is accessed through the ADV SETUP menu key ( ).
To use the ALL SETTINGS menu
1. Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ).

2. Press the B key.
3. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to select the parameter to be adjusted.

4. Rotate the knob to select the desired value.
5. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to select additional parameters to be adjusted.

OR
Press to exit the menu and return to the previous screen.

NOTE
Because of the large number of functions that are available on the NORTEC 600
instrument, the ALL SETTINGS menu contains multiple screens, or pages. The help
text at the bottom of the menu provides any additional navigation options that may
be needed.
2.3.2 Special Functions in the ALL SETTINGS Menu

Two special instrument functions are found only in the ALL SETTINGS menu:
EXT HORN (external horn) and AOUT PWR (analog out power). These functions
control the power or enable the output connectors on the back of the instrument
(see Figure 1-22 on page 41). To enable these functions, follow the instructions in
“Using the ALL SETTINGS Menu” on page 53.
NOTE
If the NORTEC 600 instrument is being used in noisy conditions, an external horn can
be used. The horn connects to the I/O connector on the back of the instrument and
increases the audible alarm’s sound output to 70 dB (see Table 10 on page 272 for the
part specification).
2.4 Displaying Real-Time Readings
The real-time readings bar displays user-configurable readings (measurements) [see

Figure 2-5 on page 51]. It can display a maximum of two real-time readings from
among seven available choices. The real-time readings bar can be set to display one or
two readings, or it can be disabled.
The following readings can be displayed (see Figure 2-7 on page 55 through
Figure 2-11 on page 57):
• OFF
• APP — Maximum amplitude vector, peak-to-peak (P-P)
• VPP — Maximum vertical voltage, peak-to-peak
54 Chapter 2
• HPP — Maximum horizontal voltage, peak-to-peak

• VMAX — Maximum vertical voltage from extended null line
• HMAX — Maximum horizontal voltage from extended null line
• DEG PP — Angle of VMAX, peak-to-peak
Volts P-P
and
Angle P-P
Figure 2-7 Example of VPP and DEG PP
Volts P-P Horz.
Figure 2-8 Example of HPP

Volts P-P
Vert.
Figure 2-9 Example of VPP
Volts Max Horz.

(+ or −)
Figure 2-10 Example of HMAX
56 Chapter 2
Volts Max Vert.

(+ or −)
Figure 2-11 Example of VMAX
2.4.1 Enabling Real-Time Readings on the Main Inspection Screen
The real-time readings are enabled through the ADV SETUP menu key ( ).
To enable the real-time readings bar on the main inspection screen

2. Press the B key.
3. Press the E key.
4. Press the B key.
5. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to navigate to the desired type and/or location.
NOTE
Only TOP LEFT and TOP RIGHT are valid locations for the real-time readings on the
main inspection screen. For available locations in full screen, see “Enabling Real-Time
Readings in Full-Screen Mode — FULL NEXT key” on page 58.
6. Rotate the knob to make a selection.
7. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to navigate to another type and/or location.

OR
Press the Return key ( ) to exit.
2.4.2 Enabling Real-Time Readings in Full-Screen Mode — FULL NEXT key

The real-time readings are also available in full-screen mode, which can be accessed
using the FULL NEXT key ( ) shown in Figure 2-5 on page 51. The location of
displayed readings on full screen differs from the location on the main inspection
screen, and readings are user-selectable.
Valid (possible) locations for the real-time readings in full-screen mode are: TOP
LEFT, TOP CNTR (top center), TOP RIGHT, BOT LEFT (bottom left), BOT CNTR
(bottom center) or BOT RGHT (bottom right).
NOTE
The performance and results of the real-time readings are greatly affected by the
D ERASE (display erase) and PERSIST (persistence) settings. It is recommended to
experiment with these parameters. For details on making changes to these settings,
see “D ERASE (display erase)” on page 85 and “PERSIST (variable persistence)” on
page 85.
To enable the real-time readings in full-screen mode (FULL NEXT key)

2. Press the B key.
3. Press the E key.
4. Press the B key.
5. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to navigate to the desired type and/or location.
6. Rotate the knob to make a selection.
7. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to navigate to another type and/or location.
OR
Press the Return key ( ) to exit.
58 Chapter 2
3. Initial Setup
This chapter contains the basic configurations for the NORTEC 600 instrument.
3.1 Setting the User Interface Language and the Decimal Symbol
You can configure the NORTEC 600 instrument to present the user interface in the
following languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Chinese, Russian,
Swedish, Italian, Portuguese, Norwegian, Hungarian, Polish, Dutch, and Czech. You
can also change the character that represents the decimal of a number.
To change the user interface language and the decimal symbol
1. Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ) twice, and then press the B key to access
the SYSTEM SETUP screen (see Figure 3-1 on page 59).
Figure 3-1 The SYSTEM SETUP screen
Initial Setup 59
2. In the SYSTEM SETUP screen, press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until
LANGUAGE is highlighted.
3. Using the knob, select the desired language.
4. Repeatedly press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until RADIX is highlighted.

5. Using the knob, select the desired character to represent the decimal of numbers:
PERIOD (.) or COMMA (,).
6. Press to return to the previous screen.
3.2 Setting the Clock
The NORTEC 600 has a built-in date and time clock. You can set the date and the time,
and select their respective format. The NORTEC 600 saves all inspection results with
their acquisition date.
To set the clock
2. Set the YEAR, MONTH, DAY, MODE (12 HOUR or 24 HOUR), HOUR,
MINUTE, and DATE MODE as follows:
a) Repeatedly press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until the item (YEAR, MONTH,
DAY, etc.) is highlighted.
b) Rotate the knob until the correct value is displayed.
3.3 Changing the Location of Saved Files
Files can be saved on the internal or external (accessible) microSD card.
60 Chapter 3
To change the location of saved files
2. Repeatedly press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until FILE SAVE LOCATION is
highlighted.
3. Change the location as required; for example, select EXTERNAL if you want to
save files on the external microSD card.
NOTE
The BACKUP / RESTORE function is disabled when files are saved on the external
microSD card.
3.4 Changing the Display Settings
You can change the appearance of some display elements such as brightness, auto
erase, VGA output, and whether or not the application window displays at startup.
To change the display settings
1. Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ) twice.

2. Press the B key to access the SYSTEM SETUP screen.
3. In the SYSTEMS SETUP screen (see Figure 3-1 on page 59), use the FULL NEXT
key ( ) to highlight the desired parameter and then use the knob to change its
value:
a) Set BRIGHTNESS to one of the predefined brightness levels: 0 %, 25 %, 50 %,
75 %, or 100 % (see “Changing the Display Brightness” on page 62 for
details).
b) Set VGA OUTPUT to ON or OFF.
Initial Setup 61
NOTE
An external display can be used if the VGA OUTPUT is set to ON, which enables the
VGA output connector on the back of the NORTEC 600 instrument. By default, this
setting is OFF.
c) Set AUTO ERASE to ON or OFF (see “Adjusting Auto Erase” on page 63 for
details).
d) Set APPLICATION WINDOW AT STARTUP to ON or OFF (see “Selecting
the Startup Screen” on page 63 for details).
e) Set CROSSHAIRS to ON or OFF.
If ON is selected, a cross mark, centered on the null position, or point, is
displayed. This is useful for monitoring signal drift from the null point.
3.5 Changing the Display Brightness
You can adjust the NORTEC 600 display brightness by changing the backlight
intensity. The display brightness can be set at 0 %, 25 %, 50 %, 75 %, and 100 %.
Choosing a high percentage increases the brightness of the display. By default, the
display brightness is set to 100 %. The NORTEC 600 uses a transflective color display
that reflects ambient light and becomes brighter in direct light. With brighter ambient
conditions, you can set the display BRIGHTNESS to a lower percentage.
To change the display brightness
1. Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ) twice, then press the B key to enter the
SYSTEM SETUP screen.
2. Repeatedly press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until BRIGHTNESS is highlighted.

3. Using the knob, select the desired BRIGHTNESS percentage: 0 %, 25 %, 50 %,
75 %, or 100 %.
4. Press to return to the main inspection screen.
62 Chapter 3
NOTE
Reducing the display BRIGHTNESS percentage increases the battery life. Battery life
specifications are based on backlight BRIGHTNESS set to 50 %.
3.6 Adjusting Auto Erase
You can adjust the NORTEC 600 to clear (erase) the screen contents automatically
after the NULL key is pressed. By default, the AUTO ERASE function is set to ON,
but it can be disabled by selecting OFF.
To adjust Auto Erase
2. Repeatedly press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until AUTO ERASE is highlighted.
3. Use the knob to disable the function (select OFF) or enable the function (select
ON).
3.7 Selecting the Startup Screen
You can adjust the NORTEC 600 to display the APPLICATION SELECTION screen
automatically after it is turned on. This function can also be disabled, so that the
instrument will instead display the main inspection screen. By default, the
APPLICATION WINDOW AT STARTUP function is set to ON.
To select the startup screen
Initial Setup 63
2. Repeatedly press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until APPLICATION WINDOW AT

STARTUP is highlighted.
ON).
4. Press to return to the main inspection screen.
3.8 Enabling Knobless Entry for Harsh Environments
The knobless function allows the NORTEC 600 to be used in radioactive or harsh
environments where the instrument has to be put inside a bag, which makes it
difficult to use the knob.
If the knobless entry function is enabled, the frequency, angle, and the combined
horizontal and vertical gain settings can be increased or decreased using keypad
entries instead of the knob. The knobless entry function is enabled using the SYSTEM
SETUP menu. By default, the knobless entry function is set to OFF. For more
information on knobless entry, see “Knobless Entry” on page 74.
To enable the knobless entry function
2. Repeatedly press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until KNOBLESS is highlighted.

ON).
64 Chapter 3
4. Control Functions
This chapter provides explanations of the NORTEC 600 instrument control functions.
4.1 PowerLink
The PowerLink feature enables the NORTEC 600 eddy current instrument to
automatically recognize Olympus PowerLink probes and rotating scanners when they
are connected to the instrument. The instrument is then configured according to the
parameters programmed into the PowerLink ID chip. Each PowerLink probe is
programmed at the factory to identify itself based on the model number, preselected
operating frequency, gain, and serial number.
When a PowerLink probe or rotating scanner is connected, the instrument displays

the PowerLink recognition screen (see Figure 4-1 on page 65).
Figure 4-1 The PowerLink recognition screen
Control Functions 65
At this point, if the PowerLink function has been enabled, the settings from the probe
or rotating scanner will be loaded into the NORTEC 600 instrument. If the PowerLink
function has been disabled, this screen will be bypassed. In either case, the instrument
will next proceed to the main inspection screen.
If you turn on the instrument with a connected PowerLink probe or rotating scanner,
press the A key to use the PowerLink feature, or press to proceed without using
the PowerLink feature. The KEEP LAST SETTINGS function lets you load the
previous parameters if they are compatible with the probe or accessory that is
detected.
4.2 Instrument Controls
The NORTEC 600 instrument controls are displayed in Figure 4-2 on page 66.
Display window (screen) Lock button
Charger/adaptor
indicator
Knob
FULL NEXT key
Function keys
Direct-function
keys
Power button
Menu keys
Figure 4-2 The NORTEC 600 instrument controls
4.2.1 Display
The NORTEC 600 instrument is configured with a color liquid crystal display (LCD)
and offers 640 × 480 resolution (full VGA). The LCD display, also referred to as a
screen, shows the eddy current signal, menus, status bar, messages, and full screen
66 Chapter 4
text when required. Several display modes are available (see “Display Menu — DISP
Key” on page 83).
4.2.2 Power and Lock Buttons
The power button ( ) toggles the instrument power on and off. At startup, the
instrument will normally attempt to restore its last configuration.
The instrument lock can be enabled or disabled by pressing the lock button ( ).
When activated, the lock disables most of the instrument function keys, menu keys,
and the knob. This prevents inadvertent key entries after the instrument is calibrated
and ready to proceed with inspections.
When the lock is activated, an indicator light ( ) illuminates below the battery life
indicator at the upper right side of the instrument screen, and only the NULL, ERASE
( ), and ANGLE ( ) direct-function keys remain functional.
NOTE
When the instrument lock is enabled, the knob is available after the ANGLE direct-
function key ( ) is pressed.
4.2.3 Direct-Function Keys

The direct-function keys located on the left side of the instrument are used to directly
select the instrument settings that are most often used for adjustment. Three of the
direct-function keys—A-LIFT NULL ( ), FREEZE ( ), and REF SAVE ( )—have

more than one main function.
A-LIFT NULL ( )
The primary function of the A-LIFT NULL key ( ) is to “null”, or initialize to

zero, the instrument screen. The secondary function of this key is to enable the A-
LIFT (Auto Liftoff) function, which automatically sets the probe liftoff from left to
right (horizontally).
To enable A-LIFT (Auto Liftoff)
NOTE
The steps that follow assume that the following criteria have been met:
• A probe is connected to the NORTEC 600 instrument.
• The probe has been “nulled” normally.
• The liftoff is not horizontal (see Figure 4-3 on page 69).
• The probe is in contact with the reference standard.
1. Press and hold the A-LIFT NULL direct-function key ( ) until a “beep” sound
signal is heard (approximately 3 seconds) and the text “LIFT PROBE” is
displayed on the instrument screen (see Figure 4-4 on page 69).
2. After the sound signal and LIFT PROBE message, lift the probe off the reference
standard.
The instrument calculates the change required to correct the instrument ANGLE
setting.
3. Null the probe again.
The probe liftoff should resemble the image shown in Figure 4-5 on page 70.
NOTE
The accuracy of Auto Liftoff depends on factors such the angle at which the probe
was lifted off the reference standard, and the material condition. Results may vary,
and minor adjustments using the ANGLE direct-function key ( ) may still be
necessary.
68 Chapter 4
Figure 4-3 Probe liftoff—initially not horizontal
Figure 4-4 The LIFT PROBE message after holding the A-LIFT NULL key
Figure 4-5 Probe liftoff after nulling
ERASE ( )
Provides the ability to erase the instrument screen instantly; this key does not
have a secondary function.
FREEZE ( )
The primary function of the FREEZE key ( ) is to freeze the current image on
the instrument screen for further evaluation. When the FREEZE key ( ) is
pressed, the data acquisition stops and an indicator (capital letter “F”) is
displayed on the instrument screen below the battery charge indicator (see
Figure 4-6 on page 71). When FREEZE is active, the functionality of the A-LIFT
NULL key ( ) and ERASE key ( ) is disabled, and a “beep” sound signal is
emitted if either of these keys is pressed.
70 Chapter 4
Figure 4-6 Freezing the current image on the instrument screen
The secondary function of the FREEZE key ( ) is to allow adjustment or

manipulation of the frozen screen image. This is useful when calibrating for the
inspection being performed. The direct-function keys that are functional while
FREEZE is enabled are GAIN ( ), ANGLE ( ), and FREEZE ( ):
• Pressing the GAIN key ( ) after FREEZE is enabled will alter the screen
image to estimate the effect of a reduction or addition of gain on the
instrument after FREEZE is disabled. Gain may be altered vertically,
horizontally, or combined vertically and horizontally (see “GAIN” on page 72
for more details on changing the gain).
• Pressing the ANGLE key ( ) after FREEZE is enabled will alter the
screen image to estimate the effect of changing the angle setting on the
instrument signal after FREEZE is disabled. (see “ANGLE” on page 72 for
more details on changing the angle).
• Pressing the REF SAVE key ( ) after FREEZE is enabled will save the screen
image and instrument settings to memory (see “REF SAVE” on page 72 for
more details on REF SAVE). While FREEZE is active, the SET REF (set
reference) functionality is disabled. If the REF SAVE key ( ) is pressed and

held for approximately 3 seconds, the instrument sounds a “beep,” which
indicates that the image and settings are successfully saved.
To exit the FREEZE mode, press the FREEZE key ( ).
GAIN ( )
Used to adjust the instrument’s gain settings. Pressing this key provides direct
access to the instrument’s gain settings while any instrument settings are
displayed in the instrument settings menu (see Figure 2-5 on page 51). Pressing
the GAIN key ( ) will display the instrument gain settings in the quick-access
bar shown in Figure 2-5 on page 51. Multiple presses of the GAIN key ( ) will
toggle between the combined horizontal and vertical gain settings, the horizontal
gain settings only, or the vertical gain settings only. The knob is the primary
method of changing this setting. For more information on gain, see “GAIN” on
page 79.
ANGLE ( )
Used to adjust the instrument’s angle settings. Pressing this key provides direct
access to the instrument’s angle settings while any instrument settings are
displayed in the instrument’s settings menu (see Figure 2-5 on page 51). Pressing
the ANGLE key ( ) will display the instrument’s angle settings in the quick-
access bar shown in Figure 2-5 on page 51. The knob is the primary method of
changing this setting. For more information on angle, see “ANGLE (rotation)” on
page 78.
REF SAVE ( )
The primary function of the REF SAVE direct-function key ( ) is to save

instrument’s settings and screen images to the instrument memory. When the REF
SAVE key ( ) is pressed once (and released), the currently displayed image and
settings are saved. Saved settings can later be recalled for reoccurring inspections.
Saved screen images can be used in reports. Saved images can also be displayed
on-screen to aid inspections (for more details, see “MEM” on page 73).
The secondary function of the REF SAVE direct-function key ( ) is to set the
current image as the reference image. If the REF SAVE key ( ) is pressed and
held (for approximately 3 seconds), the current instrument image is set as the
reference memory display, as outlined in “SET REF (set reference image)” on
page 89. After the image has been successfully saved in the reference memory, the
instrument will sound a “beep.”
72 Chapter 4
To turn off any reference signal displayed in the background, simply press and
hold the REF SAVE direct-function key ( ) until the signal disappears.
4.2.4 Menu Keys

The menu keys located at the bottom of the instrument are used to select operation
menus. Each of the menu keys provides access to two or more submenus. Repeated
pressing of a menu key will toggle between the submenus. Pressing one of the
function keys (A, B, C, D, or E) next to an operation menu item enables modification
of the item, or access to additional menus or submenus. For more information, see
“Menus” on page 78.
The following menu keys are available:
MAIN FILTER ( )
Provides access to the main menu, which controls functions such as frequency,
gain, angle, and filters.
DISP ( )
Provides access to the display menu, which controls functions such as display
mode, position, trace, and grid.
ALARM ( )
Provides access to the alarm menu, which controls functions such as alarm type,
dwell time, horn volume, and alarm position.
MEM ( )
Provides access to the memory menu, which controls functions such as
previewing stored memory files, recalling and editing stored files, capture mode,
capture time, and user information.
ADV SETUP ( )
Provides access to the ALL SETTINGS setup menu which controls instrument
setup functions such as frequency mode, colors, password, unlock options, and
reset. This menu displays all instrument settings at one time.
4.2.5 Knob
The knob (SmartKnob) is located in the upper left-hand side of the instrument. Its
primary purpose is to adjust the selected instrument parameters. When the display
box of the parameter being adjusted is highlighted, rotating the knob clockwise
increases the value and rotating it counter-clockwise decreases the value. In some
cases, the knob may also be used to respond to various prompts from the instrument.
4.2.6 Hidden Function — Screen Capture

On the NORTEC 600 instrument, you can send a screen-capture image file to the
removable (external) microSD card by holding the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ),
and then pressing the REF SAVE key ( ). Alternatively, you can use the
NORTEC PC software to capture a screen image (see “Capturing a Screen Image
Using NORTEC PC” on page 230).
4.2.7 Knobless Entry

Knobless entry is an additional useful function in the NORTEC 600 main menu that
lets you change instrument’s settings (such as frequency, angle, and gain) in situations
when rotating the knob may be difficult.
When this feature is enabled, two additional key presses (UP and DOWN) are
available to change instrument settings (see Figure 4-7 on page 74).
Figure 4-7 The UP and DOWN function in knobless entry
74 Chapter 4
NOTE
• Only the gain, angle, and frequency are controlled by knobless entry.
• The following steps assume that the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) has been
pressed.
To use knobless entry

1. Enable the knobless function in the SYSTEM SETUP screen (see “Enabling
Knobless Entry for Harsh Environments” on page 64).
2. Press the A (FREQ, or frequency), B (ANGLE), or C (GAIN) function key.
NOTE
Consecutive presses of the C (GAIN) function key allow you to toggle through the
various gain control options in the following order: H/V GAIN (combined horizontal
and vertical gain), H-GAIN (horizontal gain), followed by V-GAIN (vertical gain).
Subsequent presses of the C key will continue the toggling cycle.
3. Press the D (UP) function key to increase the setting.

OR
Press the E (DOWN) function key to decrease the setting.
4.2.8 Ambidextrous Controls

It is possible to change the location of control functions on the instrument screen, to
adapt to both left-handed and right-handed operation.
To enable ambidextrous controls
2. Repeatedly press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until AMBIDEXTROUS is selected.
3. Rotate the knob to select ON, and then press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( )
to display the controls on the right side of the instrument (see Figure 4-9 on
page 76).
Figure 4-9 The controls displayed on the right side of the instrument
4.2.9 FULL NEXT key
The FULL NEXT key ( ) has two main functions:
76 Chapter 4
1. The primary function is to expand the viewing area of the instrument screen.
2. The secondary function is to navigate the menus.
If the FULL NEXT key ( ) is pressed while any inspection screen is active, the
display is maximized, and any settings such as frequency, gain, angle, etc., will
disappear. This permits full use of the NORTEC 600 display for inspections (see
Figure 4-10 on page 77). The instrument’s settings can be displayed again by pressing
the FULL NEXT key ( ), or any other function or menu key.
Figure 4-10 The settings display (left) and maximized display (right)
If a menu screen is active, the FULL NEXT key’s secondary function can be used to
navigate the menu structure (see Figure 4-11 on page 77).
The arrows represent

menu navigation: press
the FULL NEXT key
repeatedly to step through
the menu as indicated.
Figure 4-11 Using the FULL NEXT key to navigate a menu
4.3 Menus
The NORTEC 600 menus described in this section are opened by pressing the
corresponding menu keys, which are described in “Menu Keys” on page 73.
4.3.1 Frequency (FREQ 1) Menu — MAIN FILTER Key

FREQ (frequency)
The FREQ setting determines the frequency of the drive signal of the eddy
current probe. This is adjustable from 10 Hz (0.01 kHz) to 12 MHz.
To adjust the frequency setting, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ),
followed by the A key. With FREQ highlighted, rotate the knob until the desired
frequency is displayed.
TIP
To speed up the frequency selection process, press the Enter key ( ) once while the
FREQ function is highlighted to enable the coarse knob function. FREQ will be
underlined when this function is enabled. To turn off the coarse-knob function, press
one more time.
ANGLE (rotation)
The phase angle (or rotation) of the eddy current signal is set using the ANGLE
key ( ). By default, the angle is set in 1 degree increments, from 0 to

359 degrees.
To adjust the angle setting, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), followed by
the B key. With ANGLE highlighted, rotate the knob until the desired angle is
displayed.
78 Chapter 4
TIP
To enable the fine-knob function, press the Enter key ( ) when ANGLE is
highlighted. The fine-knob function can be used to adjust the angle more precisely.
ANGLE will be underlined when this function is enabled. The angle can then be
changed in 0.1 degree increments. To turn off the fine-knob function, press one
more time.
GAIN
Gain is adjustable from 0.0 dB to 100.0 dB. The displayed gain setting is adjusted
in 0.1 dB steps. At full gain (100 dB), with the instrument’s probe drive set to
MEDIUM, instrument sensitivity is 10 V/Ω, as measured at the rear panel
horizontal and vertical outputs. In other words, ten screen divisions represents an
impedance change of one ohm on the display.
Gain can be adjusted independently in the horizontal or vertical direction, or in
both directions simultaneously. The primary method of adjusting gain is by
turning the knob. However, gain may also be adjusted by using the knobless
function (for more details, see “Knobless Entry” on page 74).
To adjust the horizontal and vertical gain simultaneously, press the MAIN FILTER
menu key ( ), followed by the C key. The gain may then be adjusted with the
knob. The selected value will be applied to both the horizontal and the vertical
gain, and the difference between the horizontal and vertical gains will remain
constant; they will increase or decrease at the same rate.
To adjust the horizontal gain only (without changing the vertical gain), press the
MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), followed by the D key. The knob will then adjust
only the horizontal gain. To adjust only the vertical gain, press the E key. The
knob will then adjust only the vertical gain.
TIP
To speed up the gain selection process (while the combined horizontal and vertical
gain, horizontal gain, or vertical gain function is highlighted), press once. This
enables the coarse-knob function. GAIN, H GAIN, or V GAIN will be underlined
when this function is enabled. The gain can then be changed in 1.0 dB increments. To
turn off the coarse-knob function, press one more time, which returns the gain
adjustments to 0.1 dB increments.
4.3.2 Filter Menu — MAIN FILTER Key

Filters
High-pass filters may be set from 0 Hz (OFF) to 100 Hz in 1 Hz increments, and
from 100 Hz to 1000 Hz in 5 Hz increments. To adjust the HI PASS filter settings,
press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) two times, followed by the A key, and
then rotate the knob to the desired value.
Low-pass filters may be set from 10 Hz to 100 Hz in 1 Hz increments, up to
500 Hz in 5 Hz increments, and up to 2000 Hz in 25 Hz increments, followed by
wide band. To adjust the LO PASS filter settings, press the MAIN FILTER menu
key ( ) two times, followed by the B key, and then rotate the knob to the
desired value.
CONT NUL (continuous null)
CONT NUL allows a very low-frequency high-pass filter to be turned on, which
is useful to keep the null point of the eddy current probe at the specified point, if
required. When turned on, this function adds a 0.2 Hz, 0.5 Hz, or 1 Hz high-pass
filter. By default, this feature is set to OFF.
To turn on continuous null, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) two times,
followed by the C key, and then rotate the knob to the desired value.
LINK
The LINK function is used to automatically adjust the values of the high-pass and
low-pass filters in accordance with the scanner speed (SCAN RPM). It is only
used for the rotating-scanner mode.
To turn on LINK, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) two times, followed
by the D key, and then rotate the knob to ON.
SCAN RPM (NORTEC 600S and NORTEC 600D models only)
The SCAN RPM function controls the scanner rotational speed (revolutions per
minute) when an optional rotating scanner is connected to the NORTEC 600S
80 Chapter 4
(N600S) or NORTEC 600D (N600D) instrument models.
To adjust the SCAN RPM setting, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) two
times, followed by the E key, and then rotate the knob to the desired value.
4.3.3 Special Menu — MAIN FILTER Key

PRB DRV (probe drive)
The NORTEC 600 instrument has three levels of probe drive that can be selected:
LOW, MEDIUM, and HIGH. The approximate peak-to-peak voltages are 2 V, 6 V,
and 12 V, respectively.
MEDIUM probe drive (the default setting) is normally sufficient for most eddy
current testing. However, HIGH probe drive is desirable in the following cases:
a) If gain is insufficient at the lower probe-drive settings.
b) During testing of lower conductivity materials.
c) For finding smaller flaws in the test material.
d) For deeper penetration into the test material.
To adjust the probe-drive level, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) three
times, followed by the A key. With PRB DRV highlighted, rotate the knob to the
desired level.
PRB CONN (probe connection)
The NORTEC 600 instrument supports two types of probe connections: BNC and
16-pin LEMO. The probe input by default is set to 16-pin LEMO. If the BNC
connector is used, the connection input needs to be changed manually.
To adjust the probe-connection input, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( )
three times, followed by the B key. With PRB CONN highlighted, rotate the knob
to select the desired connector: LEMO-16 or BNC.
NOTE
If the BNC connector is used, it is automatically balanced (no internal or external load
is required).
FILT TYPE
The FILT TYPE function lets you choose between two types of filters: FIG 6 and
FIG 8. This option is only available for rotating scanner mode.
To access FILT TYPE, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) three times,
followed by the C key, and then use the knob to select FIG 6 or FIG 8.
For more details on FILT TYPE, see “Filter Type — Figure 6 or Figure 8 Signals”
on page 130.
Slide Rule
The NORTEC 600 instrument includes a useful slide-rule tool for determining the
standard depth of penetration for a given material at a specified frequency. The
user can select a material from the list or enter a specific conductivity value.
The slide-rule tool can also determine the necessary frequency for a given depth
of penetration. The separation angle is assumed to be 118 degrees for this
calculation.
To access the slide-rule menu, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) three
times, followed by the E key. When the EDDY CURRENT SLIDE RULE menu is
displayed, use the FULL NEXT key ( ) to navigate the menu functions.
Additional navigation instructions and information is displayed in the help text at
the bottom of the screen (see Figure 4-12 on page 82).
Figure 4-12 The EDDY CURRENT SLIDE RULE menu
82 Chapter 4
4.3.4 Display Menu — DISP Key

The display menu contains submenus to control various functions such as horizontal
and vertical position, display erase, trace, grid, and zoom.
DSP MODE (display mode)

Six display modes are available on the NORTEC 600 instrument: IMP
(impedance), SWP+IMP (sweep plus impedance), SWEEP, WATERFALL, DUAL
IMP (dual impedance), and ALL IN ONE.
To adjust the display mode, press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the
A key. With DSP MODE highlighted, rotate the knob until the desired display
mode is displayed.
IMP
Impedance mode is the most common display mode. It incorporates a 10 × 10
grid configuration on the screen. The eddy current signal is shown moving
horizontally and vertically.
SWEEP
Commonly used with rotating scanners. The eddy current signal is shown
moving horizontally at a fixed rate across the screen.
SWP+IMP (NORTEC 600S and NORTEC 600D models only)
Typically used while setting up an inspection using a rotating scanner.
Impedance (IMP) and SWEEP screens are displayed together on a “split
screen.”
WATERFALL (NORTEC 600S and NORTEC 600D models only)
Used with rotating scanners. Multiple sweep traces are displayed across the
screen during hole inspection.
DUAL IMP (NORTEC 600D model only)
Used during setup of dual frequency inspections (for more details, see “Dual
Frequency Menus” on page 105 and “Display Menu in Dual Frequency —
DISP Key” on page 111).
ALL-IN-1 (NORTEC 600D model only)
Used during setup of dual frequency inspections (for more details, see “Dual
Frequency Menus” on page 105 and “Display Menu in Dual Frequency —
DISP Key” on page 111).
CHANNEL
This mode is for the NORTEC 600D model, and is only functional during dual
frequency inspection. For more details, see “Display Menu in Dual Frequency —
DISP Key” on page 111.
POSITION
Used to select the NORTEC 600 instrument‘s null position. By default, the null
position is set at the center of the instrument screen. There are five preset null
positions, as well as a modifiable position named CUSTOM.
To adjust the null position, press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the
C key. With POSITION highlighted, rotate the knob until the desired position is
displayed.
CENTER
Places the null position at the center of the screen.
BOT RGHT
Places the null position near the bottom right of the screen, at 80 % horizontal
and 20 % vertical.
BOT CNTR
Places the null position near the bottom center, at 50 % horizontal and 20 %
vertical.
TOP CNTR
Places the null position near the top center, at 50 % horizontal and 80 %
vertical.
TOP LEFT
Places the null position near the top left, at 20 % horizontal and 80 % vertical.
CUSTOM
Places the null position at a user-determined point, between 0 % and 100 %
horizontal and between 0 % and 100 % vertical. Press H POS (horizontal
position) or V POS (vertical position) to create a custom null position.
NOTE
If the horizontal or vertical position is modified after a preset null position is chosen,
the POSITION selection reverts to CUSTOM.
84 Chapter 4
H POS
Changes the null position in the horizontal axis. To change the horizontal
position, press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the D key, and then rotate
the knob to the desired setting.
V POS
Changes the null position in the vertical axis. To change the vertical position,
press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the E key, and then rotate the knob
to the desired setting.
D ERASE (display erase)
Erases the eddy current display at user-determined time intervals. The available
range for D ERASE is 0.1 s to 60 s, in 0.1 s intervals.
To activate display erase, press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the B key.
With D ERASE highlighted, rotate the knob to adjust to the desired value.
NOTE
The display erase function is not available if variable persistence (PERSIST) is
activated.
PERSIST (variable persistence)

Enables automatic screen erase. You can set the display on an impedance plane
(not sweep) so that the signal traces on the screen will be erased after a
predetermined amount of time. This time may be set from 0.1 s to 10 s, in 0.1 s
increments. By default this feature is set to OFF.
PERSIST erases all information at a particular point after the selected amount of
time has expired, even if more information is displayed there at a later time. As a
result, the displayed signal might appear broken where the eddy current signals
intersect the signals being erased. However, the resulting display is very useful
for repetitive testing, because it is no longer necessary to manually erase the
screen.
To activate variable persistence, press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the
C key. With PERSIST highlighted, rotate the knob to adjust to the desired value.
NOTE
PERSIST is not available if display erase (D ERASE) or sweep mode (SWEEP) is
activated. In some applications, PERSIST may slow down the instrument’s data
acquisition rate, resulting in decreased instrument performance. If this is the case, it is
recommended to use display erase instead.
CURSOR
Adjusts the display of the eddy current signal trace on the NORTEC 600 screen by
changing the shape of the signal focal spot. Two settings are available:
DOT and BOX.
To adjust CURSOR, press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the D key. With
CURSOR highlighted, rotate the knob to adjust to the desired value.
GRID
Five screen grid types are available: OFF, 10 × 10, FINE, COARSE, and WEB. By
default, the NORTEC 600 instrument uses a 10 × 10 grid.
To adjust the grid setting, press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the E key.
With GRID highlighted, rotate the knob to adjust to the desired value.
OFF
The instrument does not display a grid pattern.
10 × 10
A 10 by 10 grid pattern is displayed, with some unusable areas on the left and
right sides of the screen.
FINE
A grid with 13 horizontal (centered) and 10 vertical divisions is displayed.
The grid divisions furthest to the left and right are half the normal width.
COARSE
A grid with 6.5 horizontal (centered) and 5 vertical (centered) divisions is
displayed. The grid divisions at the top and bottom are half the normal width,
and grid divisions furthest to the left and right are one-quarter the normal
width.
WEB
Provides a polar grid.
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ZOOM
Adjusts the viewable portion of the NORTEC 600 screen. The null-point area of
the instrument screen is magnified by applying a horizontal and vertical digital
gain of 10.
In ZOOM mode, all display functions are disabled, with the exception of ZOOM
OFF or ON.
To enable ZOOM, press the DISP menu key ( ) twice, followed by the E key.
With ZOOM highlighted, rotate the knob to turn Zoom on or off.
4.3.5 Alarm Menu — ALARM Key

Four types of alarms are available: box, polar, sector, and sweep. The alarm menu
controls the following functions:
1. Enable (ON) or disable (OFF) the alarms.

2. Determine the polarity of the alarm (positive or negative).
3. Enable or disable DWELL time (0 s to 10 s), which is the length of time the alarm
condition continues after the alarm threshold was first detected.
To access the alarm menu, press the ALARM menu key ( ). For additional
information, see “Alarm Menus” on page 222.
4.3.6 Memory Menu — MEM Key

The memory menu contains functions for storage of programs and screen images.
Various editing functions are provided in this menu for previewing stored (saved)
data, recalling stored data, editing file names, adding notes, setting a reference image,
and erasing stored data.
The NORTEC 600 is capable of storing and retrieving complete instrument setups. By
default, the data is saved with the date, time, and instrument-generated file name. If a
PowerLink probe remains connected when the data is stored, the probe part number
and description are also recorded. After the data is stored, the file name can be
changed by using up to 29 alphanumeric characters, and notes can be added to the
file. Changes to the file name and notes are made using the front panel of the
instrument, or alternatively, by using the NORTEC PC software (included with each
instrument).
NOTE
Whenever a program (stored data file) is recalled, the currently active instrument
settings are overwritten and cannot be recovered, unless these settings were
previously stored in another program location.
The following memory storage, or MEM ( ), functions are available:
PREVIEW
Used to view instrument screen images that were captured at the moment the
data was saved.
To preview a stored data file, press the MEM menu key ( ), rotate the knob
until the desired data file is highlighted, and then press the A key. The instrument
screen image that was stored at the time the data file was saved will appear on the
instrument screen. The following steps can be taken:
• Exit (return to the previous menu) by pressing the A key.
• Recall the stored data file by pressing the B key.
• Set the data file as a reference image by pressing the D key.
• Show or hide readings by pressing the C key (see Figure 4-13 on page 88 and
Figure 4-13 The SHOW READINGS function
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Figure 4-14 The HIDE READINGS function
RECALL
Resets the instrument and loads the instrument settings associated with the data
file that is recalled.
To recall a stored data file, press the MEM menu key ( ), rotate the knob until
the desired data file is highlighted, and then press the B key. The instrument
recalls the data file with the instrument settings that were stored when the data
file was saved.
EDIT
Enables editing of the file name and adding user FILE NOTES (text) to the stored
data.
To edit text (FILE NAME or FILE NOTE) of a stored data file, press the MEM
menu key ( ), rotate the knob until the desired data file is highlighted, and then
press the C key; a text editor screen will appear on the instrument display.
For more information, see “Memory Text Editor” on page 92.
SET REF (set reference image)
Allows the screen image that was stored with the data file to be displayed on the
present instrument screen (in a contrasting color) while performing inspections.
The displayed image cannot be erased until the SET REF function is turned off.
To display a reference image, press the MEM menu key ( ), rotate the knob
until the desired data file is highlighted, and then press the D key. Alternatively, a
reference image may be created using the current screen image by pressing and
holding the REF SAVE direct-function key ( ) until the instrument sounds a
“beep.”
To turn off a reference image, press the MEM menu key ( ), and then press the
D key.
NOTE
An error message will appear when turning on the SET REF (set reference) function if
the selected DSP MODE (display mode) is not compatible with the currently active
DSP MODE.
For example, an error message occurs when the SET REF image being activated
contains a stored image with a DSP MODE setting of SWP+IMP, if the current mode
is IMP.
ERASE
Erases the selected program number (stored data file).
To erase a stored data file, press the MEM menu key ( ), rotate the knob until
the desired data file is highlighted, and then press the E key.
STORE
Used to overwrite an existing file with the current settings and data.
To overwrite a file, select it with the knob, then press the MEM menu key ( )
until the GENERAL page is displayed, and then press the A key (see Figure 4-15
on page 91).
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Figure 4-15 The STORE function
BACKUP / RESTORE
Used to create a backup copy of the instrument data, which is then saved on the
external microSD card. This image can then be transferred to a computer or to
another NORTEC 600 instrument.
If the external microSD card contains data, this function acts as a RESTORE: the
SD card’s data contents are copied to replace the instrument’s internal memory.
IMPORTANT
The RESTORE function erases the instrument’s internal memory and replaces it with
the data contents of the external SD card. BACKUP / RESTORE saves files on the
internal memory’s microSD card.
To back up the instrument’s data or restore the instrument’s internal memory,
press the MEM menu key ( ) twice, and then press the B key followed by the
A key or B key to either backup or restore.
USER INFO
Allows you to enter information on the user, job, company, work order,
instrument serial number, etc. The information in USER INFO can easily be
transferred into the NORTEC PC software and used as a header for reports.
CAPTURE MODE
In all modes except conductivity, CAPTURE MODE defines the action performed
by the instrument when the REF SAVE key ( ) is pressed. There are two capture
modes:
• INSTANT: The data on the screen is instantly saved when the key to select
this option is pressed. This is the default mode, which is most commonly
used.
• DELAYED: It is possible to specify a delay (CAPTURE DELAY) for data
saving after the REF SAVE key ( ) is pressed. This feature can help you
correctly place the probe before data is saved; for example, during scanning
operations that require two hands.
CAPTURE DELAY
Specifies the data-saving delay when CAPTURE MODE is set to DELAYED.
4.3.7 Memory Text Editor

The memory text editor appears on the instrument screen when editing the file name
or file text fields. This section provides instructions on how to use this editor to
change the file names and file notes.
NOTE
The following procedure assumes that the MEM menu key ( ) has already been
pressed, and that the FILE MANAGER menu is displayed (see Figure 4-16 on
page 93).
To use the memory text editor

1. Rotate the knob to highlight the file to be edited.
2. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to navigate to the desired field to be edited: FILE
NAME and/or FILE NOTE.
3. Press the C key.
The memory text editor is activated on the instrument display (see Figure 4-16 on
page 93).
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Move cursor left Delete character
Move cursor right Clear entire line
Figure 4-16 The FILE MANAGER menu’s memory text editor and special buttons
4. Use the knob to select characters, and press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to accept
the characters.
5. After the FILE NAME or FILE NOTE has been edited, press to save the
changes, or press to exit without saving.
NOTE
By default, the text editor highlights the entire original default file name. If a key is
subsequently pressed, the default file name or file note will be deleted. This is also the
case for a previously edited FILE NAME or FILE NOTE. However, it is possible to
avoid deletion (retain the information) by using the text editor navigations keys or
buttons, as outlined below.
The navigation keys or special buttons in the text editor allow you to modify
characters that have been mistakenly chosen, or modify previously entered
information, without the need to retype the entire field (see Figure 4-16 on page 93,
which identifies the special buttons and characters).
To insert a character with the navigation keys
1. Rotate the knob until the forward ( ) or backward ( ) arrow is

highlighted.
2. Repeatedly press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until the cursor is in the correct
location.
3. Use the knob to select characters, and press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to accept
characters.
4. After all the desired characters have been selected, press to accept, or press
(return) to cancel.
To delete a character with the navigation keys
1. Rotate the knob until the forward ( ) or backward ( ) arrow is

highlighted.
2. Repeatedly press the FULL NEXT key ( ) until the cursor is in the correct
location (after the character to be deleted).
3. Use the special deletion button ( ) to delete the character(s).
4. If required, use the knob and the FULL NEXT key ( ) to add new characters.
5. After completing the deletion(s), press to accept, or press (return) to

cancel.
To clear (delete) the entire field with the navigation keys

 To delete the entire field (line) and start over at any time during text editing,
rotate the knob and choose the clear button ( ), and then press the FULL
NEXT key ( ).
4.3.8 Advanced Setup Menu — ADV SETUP Menu Key

The advanced setup menu provides access to the following functions:
APPL SELECT (application select), ALL SETTINGS, FRQ MODE (frequency mode),
COLOR, PASSWORD, SYSTEM SETUP, UNLOCK OPTIONS, ABOUT, and
RESET. For details about SYSTEM SETUP, see “Setting the User Interface Language
and the Decimal Symbol” on page 59.
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APPL SELECT (application select)

Provides access to the application selection menu, which opens in a new window
(see Figure 4-17 on page 95).
IMPORTANT
To save setup time and effort, it is strongly recommended to navigate through the
application selection menu, as it may contain a configuration that can help you
quickly set up the instrument for your requirements. For further details, see also
“Common NORTEC 600 Applications” on page 116.
To select an application, press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ), followed by

the A key. With APPL SELECT highlighted, rotate the knob to select the desired
application. Or, to exit the menu, press the Return key ( ).
Figure 4-17 The application selection menu
The eight available applications allow you to quickly set up the instrument for
commonly used eddy current inspections.
NOTE
The NORTEC 600 applications are designed for quick setup of the instrument.
However, always follow published maintenance procedures when inspecting.
ALL SETTINGS
The ALL SETTINGS menu gives you access to all instrument menus. They are
contained in two separate screens (menus) to keep the text easy to read and to
navigate (see Figure 4-18 on page 96).
Parameters
Title bar
Help text
Figure 4-18 The ALL SETTINGS menu (first of two screens)
To select ALL SETTINGS, press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ), followed by
the B key. To navigate the menu or to go to the next screen, follow the instructions
in the help text at the bottom of the screen. To select a setting to adjust, repeatedly
press the FULL NEXT key until the desired setting is highlighted, and then rotate
the knob until the desired value is shown.
NOTE
The NORTEC 600 instrument does not use an enter key to save the selection made on
any of its menus. Instead, the selected (displayed) value is automatically saved.
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FRQ MODE (frequency mode)

This option, which supplements single frequency operation with dual-frequency
capability, is only available for the N600D model. Parameters that are adjustable
for the second frequency are frequency, gain, and rotation (angle).
The NORTEC 600D instrument includes the following features:
• Two independent frequencies: frequency 1 (F1) and frequency 2 (F2).
• Two independent vertical and horizontal gain settings for F1 and F2.
• Two independent angle settings for F1 and F2.
• The ability to add, subtract, and mix the two frequencies (F1 and F2) on the
display.
• A “mix” GAIN range from −6 dB to 18 dB with normal incremental values.
• Shared filter settings for F1 and F2.
Dual-frequency mode is controlled via the advanced setup (ADV SETUP) menu
key ( ). By default, the mode is set to single frequency.

To enable dual-frequency mode
(1) Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ).

(2) Press the C key, and then rotate the knob to select the desired value:
DUAL for dual frequency or SINGLE for single frequency.
Dual-frequency controls
Dual-frequency controls are similar to those in single frequency mode, except
that there are additional frequency, angle, and gain menus for frequency 2
(F2). Figure 4-19 on page 98 and Figure 4-20 on page 98 contain examples of
the MAIN FILTER ( ) menus with dual frequency enabled. For more
details on how to use this mode, see “Dual Frequency Menus” on page 105.
Figure 4-19 The FREQ 1 menu
Figure 4-20 The FREQ 2 menu
Dual-frequency mix controls

The MIX menu allows the NORTEC 600D instrument to mix frequency 1 and
frequency 2, and display the results on the instrument screen.
To access the MIX menu, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ). For more
details, see “MIX Menu in Dual Frequency — MAIN FILTER Key” on
page 109.
COLOR
The NORTEC 600 instrument includes user-selectable color schemes.
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The color palate on the screen can be changed as follows:
(1) Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ).

(2) Press the E key, and then rotate the knob to select the color palette.
PASSWORD
The stored data and instrument reset capabilities can be protected with a
password to prevent accidental deletion of data (see Figure 4-21 on page 99).
IMPORTANT
The default factory password is OLYN600.
Figure 4-21 The PASSWORD menu
The PASSWORD function is accessed as follows:
(1) Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ) twice.

(2) Press the A key.
The password is set as follows:
(1) Press the FULL/NEXT key to navigate to the item to protect with a
password: FILE MENU or RESETS MENU.
(2) Press the FULL/NEXT key to navigate to the text editor.
(3) Rotate the knob to select the characters of the password. When finished,
press the A key to ACCEPT.
(4) Press the FULL/NEXT key to navigate to another item to protect with a
password, and repeat steps 1 through 3 above, or press to exit.

SYSTEM SETUP
Used to configure the NORTEC 600 instrument’s language, date, time, display
brightness, and other settings (see Figure 4-22 on page 100; for more details, see
“Initial Setup” on page 59). Here you can also select the application screen that
appears when the instrument starts up (see “Selecting the Startup Screen” on
page 63).
UNLOCK OPTIONS
Provides access to purchased instrument upgrades that can be enabled by the
operator. These include model upgrades: N600 to N600C model, N600C to N600S
model, N600S to N600D model, etc. A full list of possible upgrades and part
numbers is listed in Table 11 on page 272.
To unlock options, press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ) twice, followed by
the C key, and then enter the option code for the upgrade.
For more information on this feature, contact your local Olympus representative.
Contact information for your region can be found by visiting the Olympus
website at http://www.olympus-ims.com/en/contact-us/.
100 Chapter 4
ABOUT
This feature displays the instrument configuration and other important
information. Occasionally, when required by service technicians or product
representatives, this feature will help factory personnel identify your instrument
and/or troubleshoot problems. It is provided to help meet current user
requirements and also assists with any future upgrades.
To access the ABOUT menu, press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ) twice,
followed by the D key.
The ABOUT menu provides access to the following sections:
BATT & TEMP (battery and instrument temperature, battery level, battery
capacity, battery design capacity, and battery status), LEGAL INFO (legal
information), UPGRADE (instrument software upgrade), and TESTS (see
Figure 4-23 The ABOUT menu
BATT & TEMP

Provides the battery and instrument internal temperature, and information
on model name, date of manufacture, software and hardware versions,
instrument serial number, etc.
To access the BATT & TEMP menu, press the ADV SETUP menu key
( ), followed by the D key, and then the A key. To exit, press the Return
key ( ).

LEGAL INFO
Displays legal or patent rights protection information for the NORTEC 600
eddy current instrument.
To access the LEGAL INFO menu, press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ),
followed by the B key. To navigate the menu, follow the instructions in the
help text at the bottom of the screen. To exit, press the Return key ( ).
REG
Displays regulatory information for the NORTEC 600 eddy current
instrument (see Figure 4-24 on page 102).
Figure 4-24 The REGULATORY SCREEN
UPGRADE
Provides information on software and hardware upgrades.
To access the UPGRADE menu, press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ),
followed by the C key, and then follow the on-screen instructions. To exit,
press the Return key ( ).

TESTS
Provides operator-accessible tests to help troubleshoot the instrument. Tests
include VIDEO TEST, KEYPAD TEST, SD CARD TEST, and LED TEST.
102 Chapter 4
To access the TESTS menu, press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ),
followed by the D key. Rotate the knob until the desired test is shown and
then press the A key to begin the test. To exit the TESTS menu, press the
Return key ( ).
• VIDEO TEST—Checks the instrument by displaying three equal-width
color bands: red, green, and blue. The test fails if one or more of the
equal-width bands is not present. To exit the video test, press the Return
key ( ). Subsequently, the TESTS menu reappears on the instrument

display.
• KEYPAD TEST—Checks if the instrument keypad is operating correctly
and displays the last key that was pressed. The test continues until the
Return key ( ) is pressed. Subsequently, the TESTS menu reappears on

the instrument display.
• SD CARD TEST—Checks the internal SD card and external SD card (if
present), and presents a PASSED or FAILED response. To exit the SD
card test, press the Return key ( ). Subsequently, the TESTS menu
reappears on the instrument display.
NOTE
If an external SD card is not present during the SD card test, FAILED will be
displayed for this storage device.
• LED TEST—Checks if the instrument LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are

operational. The LEDs are located above the OLYMPUS logo on the
instrument, and are marked with the numbers 1, 2, and 3. During the test,
each individual LED should display a sequence of green, yellow/orange,
and red colors before continuing to the next individual LED color
sequence. If any of these colors are not present, the LED is not working
correctly. To exit the LED test, press the Return key ( ). Subsequently,
the TESTS menu reappears on the instrument display.

NOTE
The battery or charging indicator LED is not tested during the LED TEST and can
instead be manually inspected. For more information on this LED, see
“Charger/Adaptor” on page 25.
RESET
Provides the ability to reset the instrument as follows:
(1) To access the RESET menu, press the ADV SETUP menu key ( )
followed by the E key, and then rotate the knob to select the desired type
of instrument reset: parameters, storage, or master (see Figure 4-25 on
page 104 and Table 4 on page 104).
(2) To perform the reset, press the A key.
(3) To exit, press the Return key ( ).
Figure 4-25 The RESET menu
Table 4 Reset types

Reset type Description
Parameters reset Clears only the instrument settings, and returns the
instrument to its default settings.
Storage reset Clears all stored programs and screen images.
104 Chapter 4
Table 4 Reset types (continued)

Reset type Description
Master reset Clears the instrument settings, stored programs, and
screen images, and returns the instrument to its default
settings.
4.4 Dual Frequency Menus
Dual frequency mode provides added gain functionality, and is available on

NORTEC 600D models only. When dual frequency is enabled, its menus can be
opened by pressing the corresponding basic operation keys, as described in “Menu
Keys” on page 73.

FREQ 1 (frequency 1)
The FREQ 1 setting determines the frequency 1 drive signal of the eddy current
probe. This is adjustable from 10 Hz (0.01 kHz) to 12 MHz.
To adjust the frequency setting, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ),
followed by the A key. With FREQ 1 highlighted, rotate the knob until the desired
TIP
To speed up the frequency selection process, press the Enter key ( ) while the
FREQ function is highlighted to enable the coarse-knob function. FREQ 1 will be
one more time.
ANGLE (rotation)
The phase angle (or rotation) of the eddy current signal is set using the ANGLE
key ( ). By default, the angle is set in 1 degree increments, from 0 degrees to
359 degrees.

To adjust the angle setting, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), followed by
the B key. Once the ANGLE function is highlighted, rotate the knob until the
desired angle is displayed.
TIP
To be able to adjust the angle more precisely, press the Enter key ( ) once while the
ANGLE function is highlighted to enable the fine-knob function. ANGLE will be
underlined when this function is enabled. The angle can then be changed in
0.1 degree increments. To turn off the fine-knob function, press one more time.
GAIN
Gain is adjustable from 0.0 dB to 100.0 dB. The displayed gain setting is adjusted
in 0.1 dB steps.
Gain can be adjusted independently in the horizontal or vertical direction, or in
function (see “Knobless Entry” on page 74 for more details).
To adjust the horizontal and vertical gain simultaneously, press the MAIN FILTER
menu key ( ), followed by the C key. The gain may then be adjusted with the
knob. The selected value will be applied to both the horizontal and the vertical
gain, and the difference between the horizontal and vertical gains will remain
constant; they will increase or decrease at the same rate.
To adjust the horizontal gain only (without changing the vertical gain), press the
MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), followed by the D key. The knob will then adjust
only the horizontal gain. To adjust only the vertical gain, press the E key. The
knob will then adjust only the vertical gain.
TIP
gain, horizontal gain, or vertical gain function is highlighted), press once, which
enables the coarse-knob function. GAIN, H GAIN or V GAIN will be underlined
106 Chapter 4
turn off the coarse-knob function, press one more time, which returns to gain
adjustments in 0.1 dB increments.

FREQ 2 (frequency 2)
The FREQ 2 setting determines the frequency 2 drive signal of the eddy current
probe. This is adjustable from 10 Hz (0.01 kHz) to 12 MHz.
To adjust the frequency setting, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) twice,
followed by the A key. With FREQ 2 highlighted, rotate the knob until the desired
TIP
To speed up the frequency selection process, press the Enter key ( ) once while the
FREQ function is highlighted to enable the coarse-knob function. FREQ 2 will be
one more time.
ANGLE 2 (rotation)
The phase angle (or rotation) of the eddy current signal is set using the ANGLE 2
function. By default, the angle is set in 1 degree increments, from 0 degrees to
359 degrees.
To adjust the angle setting, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) twice,
followed by the B key. With ANGLE 2 highlighted, rotate the knob until the
desired angle is displayed.

TIP
To adjust the angle more precisely, press the Enter key ( ) once while the ANGLE
function is highlighted to enable the fine-knob function. ANGLE will be underlined
when this function is enabled. The angle can then be changed in 0.1 degree
increments. To turn off the fine-knob function, press one more time.
GAIN 2
Gain 2 is adjustable from 0.0 dB to 100.0 dB. The displayed gain setting is adjusted
in 0.1 dB steps.
Gain 2 can be adjusted independently in the horizontal or vertical direction or in
function (see “Knobless Entry” on page 74 for more details).
To adjust the horizontal and vertical gain (H GAIN 2 and V GAIN 2)
simultaneously, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) twice, followed by the
C key. The gain may then be adjusted with the knob. The selected value will be
applied to both the horizontal and the vertical gain, and the difference between
the horizontal and vertical gains will remain constant; they will increase or
decrease at the same rate.
To adjust the horizontal gain only (H GAIN 2 without changing V GAIN 2), press
the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) twice, followed by the D key. The knob will
then adjust only the horizontal gain. To adjust only the vertical gain (V GAIN 2),
press the E key. The knob will then adjust only the vertical gain.
TIP
gain, horizontal gain, or vertical gain function is highlighted), press once, which
enables the coarse-knob function. GAIN, H GAIN, or V GAIN will be underlined
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turn off the coarse-knob function, press one more time, which returns to gain
adjustments in 0.1 dB increments.
4.4.3 MIX Menu in Dual Frequency — MAIN FILTER Key

MIX menu
The MIX menu determines how the signal is displayed while in dual frequency.
The options are AUTO, F1+F2 (frequency 1 + frequency 2), or F1-F2 (frequency 1 –
frequency 2).
To adjust the MIX setting, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) three times,
followed by the A key. With MIX highlighted, rotate the knob until the desired
MIX is displayed:
• AUTO MIX
• H MIX GAIN
• V MIX GAIN
• MIX ANGLE
When the MIX TYPE is set to AUTO, the AUTO MIX command (B key) becomes
available. The AUTO MIX command will perform automatic mixing of the live
signals when the key is pressed. This function is particularly suited for heat
exchanger tubing inspection.
4.4.4 Filter Menu in Dual Frequency — MAIN FILTER Key

HI PASS filters
High-pass filters may be set from 0 Hz (OFF) to 100 Hz in 1 Hz increments, and
from 100 Hz to 1000 Hz in 5 Hz increments. To adjust the HI PASS filter settings,
press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) three times, followed by the A key, and
then rotate the knob to the desired value.
LO PASS filters
Low-pass filters may be set from 10 Hz to 100 Hz in 1 Hz increments, up to
500 Hz in 5 Hz increments, and up to 2000 Hz in 25 Hz increments, followed by
wide band. To adjust the LO PASS filter settings, press the MAIN FILTER menu

key ( ) three times, followed by the B key, and then rotate the knob to the
desired value.
CONT NUL (continuous null)
CONT NUL allows a very low-frequency high-pass filter to be turned on, which
is useful to keep the null point of the eddy current probe at the specified point, if
required. When turned on, this function adds a 0.2 Hz, 0.5 Hz, or 1 Hz high-pass
filter. By default, this feature is set to OFF.
To turn on continuous null, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) three times,
followed by the C key, and then rotate the knob to the desired value.
SCAN RPM (NORTEC 600S and NORTEC 600D models only)
The SCAN RPM function controls the scanner rotational speed (revolutions per
minute) when an optional rotating scanner is connected to the NORTEC 600S
(N600S) or NORTEC 600D (N600D) instrument models.
To adjust the SCAN RPM setting, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) three
times, followed by the E key, and then rotate the knob to the desired value.
4.4.5 Special Menu in Dual Frequency — MAIN FILTER Key

PRB DRV (probe drive)
The NORTEC 600 instrument has three levels of probe drive that can be selected:
LOW, MEDIUM, and HIGH. The approximate peak-to-peak voltages are 2 V, 6 V,
and 12 V, respectively.
MID probe drive (the default setting) is normally sufficient for most eddy current
testing. However, HIGH probe drive is desirable in the following cases:
a) If gain is insufficient at the lower probe-drive settings.
b) During testing of lower conductivity materials.
c) For finding smaller flaws in the test material.
d) For deeper penetration into the test material.
To adjust the probe drive level, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) four
times, followed by the A key. With the PRB DRV function highlighted, rotate the
knob to the desired level.
110 Chapter 4
PRB CONN (probe connection)

The NORTEC 600 instrument supports two types of probe connections: BNC and
16-pin LEMO. The probe input by default is set to 16-pin LEMO. If the BNC
connector is used the connection input needs to be changed manually.
To adjust the probe-connection input, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( )
four times, followed by the B key. With PRB CONN highlighted, rotate the knob
to select the desired connector: LEMO-16 or BNC.
Slide Rule
The NORTEC 600 instrument includes a useful slide-rule tool for determining the
standard depth of penetration for a given material at a specified frequency. The
user can select a material from the list or enter a specific conductivity value.
The slide-rule tool can also determine the necessary frequency for a given depth
of penetration. The separation angle is assumed to be 118 degrees for this
calculation.
To access the slide-rule menu, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) four
times, followed by the E key. When the EDDY CURRENT SLIDE RULE menu is
displayed, use the FULL NEXT key ( ) to navigate the menu functions.
Additional navigation instructions and information are displayed in the help text
at the bottom of the screen (see Figure 4-12 on page 82).
4.4.6 Display Menu in Dual Frequency — DISP Key

The display menu contains menus to control various functions such as DSP MODE
(display mode) CHANNEL, POSITION, H POS and V POS (horizontal and vertical
position), D ERASE (display erase), PERSIST, GRID, and ZOOM.
DSP MODE (display mode)

When dual frequency is enabled, five display modes are available on the
NORTEC 600 instrument: IMP (impedance), ALL-IN-1 (all in one), DUAL IMP
(dual impedance, also named “split screen”), SWP + IMP (sweep + impedance)
and SWEEP.
To choose the DSP MODE (display mode), press the DISP menu key ( ),
followed by the A key. With DSP MODE highlighted, rotate the knob to select the
desired mode.

IMP (impedance)
Impedance mode is the most common display mode. It incorporates a 10 × 10
grid configuration on the screen. The eddy current signal is shown moving
horizontally and vertically.
ALL-IN-1
ALL-IN-1 mode is used to display the signal traces associated with both
FREQ 1, FREQ 2, and the MIX signal at the same time, each with a different
color to show how the individual signals interact.
DUAL IMP (dual impedance)
Dual impedance (split screen) mode divides the instrument screen into two
impedance displays with channel 1 on the left and channel 2 on the right. The
dual impedance screen is used to set up dual frequencies, and it displays
FREQ 1 (frequency 1) and FREQ 2 (frequency 2).
SWP + IMP (sweep + impedance)
Sweep + impedance mode is similar to dual impedance mode except that the
instrument sweep display is shown on the left screen and the impedance
display on the right. As with the DUAL IMP (dual impedance) mode, it is
used to set up dual frequencies, and it displays FREQ 1 (frequency 1) and
FREQ 2 (frequency 2).
SWEEP
Commonly used with rotating scanners. The eddy current signal is shown
moving horizontally at a fixed rate across the screen. In dual frequency mode,
however, the user can choose between displaying channel 1 (FREQ 1),
channel 2 (FREQ 2), or the mix signal (MIX).
CHANNEL
The Channel function is used to display which signal is being displayed:
frequency 1, frequency 2, or Mix.
To choose the CHANNEL, or signal displayed, press the DISP menu key ( ),
followed by the B key. With CHANNEL highlighted, rotate the knob to select the
desired signal, FREQ 1 (frequency 1), FREQ 2 (frequency 2), or MIX.
SWP MODE (sweep mode)
Sweep mode is used to control the instrument’s sweep mode, and includes AUTO
Y and AUTO XY for use with rotating scanners. AUTO Y contains the external
horizontal sync signal and AUTO XY contains both the horizontal and vertical
external sync signals.
112 Chapter 4
To choose the sweep mode, press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the
C key. With SWP MODE highlighted, rotate the knob to select the desired signal:
AUTO Y or AUTO XY.
V POS (vertical position)
Vertical position is used to control the signal trace shown on the instrument
screen and is only displayed when AUTO Y is selected. By default, the setting is
50 %, or centered on the screen. Choices for this setting range from 0 % (bottom of
the screen) to 100 % (top of the screen).
To choose the vertical position, press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the
E key. With V POS highlighted, rotate the knob to select the desired position.
H POS
Changes the null position in the horizontal axis. To change the horizontal
position, press the DISP menu key ( ), followed by the D key. With H POS
highlighted, rotate the knob to select the desired position.
GRID
Five screen grid types are available: OFF, 10 × 10, FINE, COARSE, and WEB. By
default, the NORTEC 600 instrument uses a 10 × 10 grid.
To choose the grid to be displayed, press the DISP menu key ( ) twice,
followed by the D key. With GRID highlighted, rotate the knob to select the
desired grid.
SWP ERS (sweep erase)
Sweep erase is used to control when the sweep signal is erased. The choice is ON
(default) or OFF. When the sweep erase is enabled (ON) the sweep signal is
automatically erased before the next sweep signal is provided, and the signal on
the screen is constantly updated. If SWP ERS is disabled, the screen is only erased
if the ERASE direct-function key ( ) is pressed.
To choose when the sweep signal is erased, press the DISP menu key ( )
twice, followed by the E key. With SWP ERS highlighted, rotate the knob to select
ON or OFF.

4.4.7 ALARM Menu in Dual Frequency — ALARM Key

In dual frequency mode, the alarm menus are chosen and defined in the same manner
as single frequency except more functions are available for the additional second
frequency. For more information on setting the alarms in dual frequency mode, see
“Alarm Menus” on page 222.
114 Chapter 4
5. Using the Instrument
This chapter explains how to use the NORTEC 600 instrument for inspections and
conductivity measurements and provides details on the instrument alarms.
The application examples in this chapter have been prepared to help you rapidly
obtain the best results for the most common NORTEC 600 applications. Although it
may be possible to obtain equivalent results using different methods, it is
recommended that you follow these examples to most efficiently learn how to take
full advantage of the instrument’s numerous features. This minimizes the required
number of steps and operations. The example procedures are also a good starting
point if you need to write any inspection procedures based on the NORTEC 600.
IMPORTANT
The application examples presented here are not intended to replace any original
equipment manufacturer (OEM) inspection procedures for your specific applications.
Instead, they are intended to help you benefit from the numerous features available
on the NORTEC 600. This facilitates the configuration of commonly used eddy
current applications and provides you with self-guided training. You must ALWAYS
closely follow your own OEM procedures.
NOTE
Certain Olympus probes, scanners or accessories use PowerLink technology. To fully
benefit from the NORTEC 600 instrument’s pre-programmed features, it is
recommended that you choose an application from the application selection menu
after your PowerLink probe or accessory is connected and accepted by the instrument.
Using the Instrument 115

5.1 Common NORTEC 600 Applications
This section contains example procedures for commonly used applications.
5.1.1 Detecting Surface-Breaking Cracks — General Purpose Procedure for

All NORTEC 600 Models
The steps in this procedure are based on the use of a reference standard made of
aluminum. However, very similar steps can be followed when inspecting any other
metals, including ferromagnetic materials.
Inspection materials are shown in Figure 5-1 on page 116.
Figure 5-1 Materials—surface-breaking cracks
The following products are used in this procedure:
• Right angle flexible metal shaft surface probe: 12.7 cm (5 in.) overall length and
5 mm (0.20 in.) drop (90° bend) at tip; operating frequency 200 kHz to 1 MHz,
triaxial Fischer/LEMO connector, bridge coil configuration; P/N: MTF902-50FX
200K-1M [U8616220]
• Cable: 1.83 m (6 ft) length, bridge coil configuration, 16-pin LEMO to
Fischer/LEMO triaxial (SPO-6472); P/N: 9122244 [U8800091]
• Surface reference standard with certification: aluminum material with EDM notch
depths of 0.203 mm (0.008 in.), 0.508 mm (0.020 in.) and 1.016 mm (0.040 in.), and
116 Chapter 5
maximum width of 0.178 mm (0.007 in.); block overall dimensions

25.4 mm×101.6 mm×6.35 mm (1 in.×4 in.×0.25 in.); P/N: SRS-0824A [U8860536]
To set the initial NORTEC 600 configuration

1. Connect the probe and cable to the PROBE connector on the NORTEC 600.
2. Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ) once, followed by the A key (APPL
SELECT) to open the application selection menu. Select Surface Cracks with the
knob (SmartKnob), and then press to accept (see Figure 5-2 on page 117).
Figure 5-2 The Surface Cracks application
3. Press the DISP menu key ( ) once, and set the POSITION (C key) to BOT
CNTR with the knob.
To calibrate the signals
1. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) once, and set the FREQ (A key) to
500 kHz with the knob.
Depending on the probe that is used to follow this procedure, you may need to
select a different frequency.

IMPORTANT
When single-coil absolute probes are connected to the BNC connector, it is important
to set the NORTEC 600 accordingly. Repeatedly press the MAIN FILTER menu key
( ) until the SPECIAL menu page is displayed. Set the PRB CONN parameter
(B key) to BNC with the knob. It is also recommended to set the low-pass filter to
100 Hz: press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) twice, and set LO PASS (B key) to
100 Hz using the knob.
2. Place the probe coil on the reference standard between two notches, with the
notches facing up, and then press and hold the A-LIFT NULL key ( ) on the
NORTEC 600 to activate the automatic lift-off function.
After a brief moment, the NORTEC 600 beeps and displays LIFT PROBE at the
top of the screen. When this text is displayed, lift the probe into the air, and wait
for the message to disappear.
3. Repeat step 2 until you become familiar with the automatic lift-off function.
It may take some practice to obtain the proper timing with the automatic lift-off
function, but once mastered, this function will help you obtain a faster calibration.
4. Place the probe between two notches on the reference standard again, press the
A-LIFT NULL key ( ), and then, after the nulling operation is finished, scan the
standard.
The screen should resemble the image shown in Figure 5-3 on page 119.
118 Chapter 5
Figure 5-3 The automatic lift-off function
5. Press the FREEZE key ( ).

You can now use both of your hands to complete the calibration.
6. Press the ANGLE key ( ). The ANGLE parameter defaults to the coarse
mode. Press the Enter key ( ) in order to switch the ANGLE parameter to the
fine mode. Adjust the ANGLE value with the knob until the lift-off signal is as
close as possible to horizontal (see Figure 5-4 on page 119).
Figure 5-4 The lift-off signal as close as possible to horizontal

7. Press the GAIN key ( ) twice to display H GAIN in the upper-left corner of
the screen, and then decrease the horizontal gain with the knob until the signal
from the larger notch is about 3 divisions away from the crosshairs (see Figure 5-5
on page 120).
Figure 5-5 Adjusting the horizontal gain
8. Press the GAIN key ( ) to display V GAIN in the upper-left corner of the
screen, and then increase the vertical gain until one of the notches reaches the top
of the screen.
In the example shown in Figure 5-6 on page 120, the signal from the bigger notch
is set to the last vertical division, which is equivalent to 90 % screen height.
Figure 5-6 Adjusting the vertical gain
120 Chapter 5
9. Press the FREEZE key ( ) to unfreeze the instrument, place the probe on the
standard, press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ), and then scan the standard to
perform a final calibration check (see Figure 5-7 on page 121).
If the signals are not satisfactory, repeat steps 5–8.
Figure 5-7 The final calibration check
To fine-tune the instrument settings

1. Depending on your requirements, set the alarm parameters, horn, or external
horn (louder).
For more details about alarms, see “Alarm Menus” on page 222.
2. Depending on your requirements, set the display erase or persistence values to
automatically refresh the screen.
For more details about screen erase options, see “D ERASE (display erase)” on
page 85 and “PERSIST (variable persistence)” on page 85.
3. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to toggle to the full-screen mode, and then scan
the standard.
The results should resemble the image in Figure 5-8 on page 122. The list of all
parameters is shown in Figure 5-9 on page 122.
Note that the value of the maximum vertical amplitude is displayed by default in
the bottom-right corner. For more details about the reading type or position in the
impedance plane display, see “Displaying Real-Time Readings” on page 54.

Figure 5-8 The full-screen mode for fine-tuning the settings
Figure 5-9 The list of all parameters
5.1.2 Inspecting Fastener Holes with a Rotating Scanner — NORTEC 600S

and NORTEC 600D Models
This procedure is intended for the general-purpose inspection of aircraft fastener
holes in aluminum material, and has been prepared for a 12.70 mm (0.50 in.) diameter
hole. At the end of this section, more details are provided for ferromagnetic (steel)
material hole inspection as well as the new NORTEC 600’s Figure 6 versus Figure 8
filter response.
122 Chapter 5
Figure 5-10 Materials—fastener holes with rotating scanner
• MiniMite Fischer rotating scanner; P/N: 9744738 [U8750012]

• Rotary-hole probe: self-adjusting, Universal type, with Bell backshell, 12.70 mm
(0.500 in.) diameter, self-expanding, 50.8 mm (2 in.) working length; operating
frequency 200 kHz to 3 MHz, Fischer 4-pin connector, reflection differential coil
configuration; P/N: SUB-28-32 [U8600488]
• Eddy current hole standard for demonstration purposes (not certified); P/N:
RSTD-10135 [U8863213]

1. Connect the probe to the rotating scanner (align the red marks on the connectors),
and connect the scanner cable to both the rotating scanner and the NORTEC 600
PROBE connector.
2. When prompted, select CONTINUE (A key) to accept the PowerLink settings.
3. Select the application:
 If you are using software version 1.09 or higher, the application selection
menu automatically opens. Select Bolt Hole with the knob, and then press
to accept.

OR
If you are using an earlier version of the software, press the ADV SETUP
menu key ( ) once, and then select APPL SELECT (A key) to open the
application selection menu. Select Bolt Hole with the knob, and then press
to accept (see Figure 5-11 on page 124).
Figure 5-11 The Bolt Hole application

1. Insert the probe into the “bad” hole on the standard (there are two 12.70 mm
[0.50 in.] holes: one without defects and one with a long axial notch), making sure
to properly align the probe with the hole, and then press the A-LIFT NULL key
( ).
Note that the scanner should be stopped when nulling the instrument.
2. Hold the probe in the hole and properly aligned on the long crack. If this is your
first scan, start the rotating scanner motor by pressing the switch at the back of the
rotating scanner.
The signal on the impedance plane (right side) should display the defect signal
and the lift-off signal (also referred to as the probe-motion signal). Depending on
the probe diameter used, the lift-off signal may appear smaller or bigger, and
sometimes the signal may be difficult to see on the screen.
If the probe is correctly aligned in the hole, the lift-off amplitude is normally
decreased, but if the probe is slightly misaligned, it will result in an increase in
lift-off signal. However, make sure that you do not tilt the probe too much, since
124 Chapter 5
this could cause damage (see Figure 5-12 on page 125).
Figure 5-12 The bolt-hole signal
3. Set the signal angle according to one of the following two alternative methods.
Before proceeding, check which method is better suited to your needs:
 First alternative:
While holding the probe (still rotating) in the bad hole, press the ANGLE key
( ), and then adjust the angle with the knob in order to rotate the lift-off
noise to a horizontal position (see Figure 5-13 on page 125).
Figure 5-13 Adjusting the lift-off noise (first alternative)

Second alternative:
If the surface of your sample is made of the same material as the material of
the hole to be inspected, this alternative is usually more practical and easier.
While the scanner is rotating the probe, simply gently touch the surface of the
sample with the head of the probe, and adjust the signal angle so that the tip
of the signal extends to the right of the impedance plane (see Figure 5-14 on
page 126).
Figure 5-14 Adjusting the lift-off noise (second alternative)
4. Press the GAIN key ( ), and then decrease the gain with the knob in order to
keep the entire crack signal within the screen area.
A good practice is to set the signal’s maximum deflection to 10 % of the screen’s
horizontal deflection (see Figure 5-15 on page 127).
126 Chapter 5
Figure 5-15 Adjusting the gain
5. Press the GAIN key ( ) two more times to access the V GAIN parameter, and
then adjust the vertical gain with the knob until the signal reaches the top of the
screen, which is 100 % screen height (see Figure 5-16 on page 127).
At this point, the configuration is nearly finished.

6. If required, fine-tune the filter values by pressing the MAIN FILTER menu key
( ) twice to access the HI PASS (A key), LO PASS (B key) or SCAN RPM

(E key) parameters and adjusting these parameters while maintaining the probe
rotating in the bad hole.

Note that the NORTEC 600 features a constant “figure-6” rotating bolt-hole signal
response. In theory, filter adjustment is unnecessary, and only the scanner speed
(SCAN RPM) needs to be adjusted.
7. If the flaw appears at an inconvenient location in the sweep (strip chart) view on
the left, press the DISP menu key ( ) and adjust the SYNC ANG (D key) with
the knob until it is in a satisfactory location.
To fine-tune the instrument settings for aluminum

horn (louder). For more details about alarms, see “Alarm Menus” on page 222.
2. Check if any other display modes, such as the IMP and the WATERFALL display
modes, might be useful for your purposes. For more details about screen options,
see “Display Menu — DISP Key” on page 83 and “Display Menu in Dual
Frequency — DISP Key” on page 111.
3. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to toggle to the full-screen mode, and then insert
the probe into the bad hole.
The results should resemble the image in Figure 5-17 on page 128. The list of all
parameters for aluminum is shown in Figure 5-18 on page 129.
Note that the value of the maximum signal amplitude and signal angle is
displayed by default. For more details about the readings or their position in the
impedance plane display, see “Displaying Real-Time Readings” on page 54.
Figure 5-17 The full-screen mode for fine-tuning the settings
128 Chapter 5
Figure 5-18 The list of all parameters for aluminum
To fine-tune the instrument settings for ferromagnetic material (steel)

1. Perform steps 1–3 of the procedure in this section on the steel standard with a
good and bad hole.
2. Observe the following possible differences when using a ferromagnetic material
(as compared to aluminum):
• A different lift-off (probe motion) angle in the good hole
• A different notch angle in relation to the lift-off (closer to 90°)
• Lower gains in general
• Possibly identical H and V gains
An example for a steel hole is shown in Figure 5-19 on page 130. The list of all
parameters is shown in Figure 5-20 on page 130. Note that compared to the signal
for aluminum material, the impedance plane signal of ferromagnetic material has
a reverted figure.

Figure 5-19 An example display for a steel hole
Figure 5-20 The list of all parameters in ferromagnetic material
Filter Type — Figure 6 or Figure 8 Signals

The most recent digital filtering technology used on the NORTEC 600 includes
improvements to the filter system. The NORTEC 600 features a new parameter,
named FILT TYP (filter type), which is accessed using the C key—after pressing the
MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) three times. This parameter determines the way the
signal is distorted (or not distorted) in the impedance plane.
130 Chapter 5
The default filter type is a Figure 6 (FIG 6) signal, which has a needle-like shape and is
widely employed in the industry. This Figure 6 filter automatically adjusts the signal
phase in order to achieve the typical Figure 6 response, regardless of high and low
pass filter settings. This constant Figure 6 filter response enables much quicker and
easier tuning of the NORTEC 600 filter system, and it makes it possible to eliminate
unwanted signals rather than trying to achieve the proper signal shape.
The Figure 8 (FIG 8) filter type is generated using filters that are almost completely
nondistorting. This filter type is useful when using absolute rotating probes or in
special engine-inspection applications. The Figure 8 filter is also the default filter type
for nonrotating applications such as surface inspection.
Figure 5-21 on page 131 shows the Figure 6 response on the left and the Figure 8
response on the right. Both images have been obtained using the same probe in an
aluminum hole with very similar gain and angle settings.
Figure 5-21 Comparing the Figure 6 (left) and Figure 8 filter signals
By setting LINK to ON, you can enable the dynamic high and low pass filter settings
while you adjust RPM to maintain the signal response.
5.1.3 Detecting Sub-Surface Cracks at Very Low Frequency — All

NORTEC 600 Models
This section contains a general procedure for detecting sub-surface cracks at fastener
locations in aircraft lap joints. This procedure can easily be adapted to thicker skins
(or materials) by employing a bigger ring probe and lower frequency.

Back of standard
Figure 5-22 Materials—sub-surface cracks at very low frequency
• Reflection-ring probe with triaxial Fischer/LEMO connector: operating frequency

50 Hz to 3 kHz, 12.7 mm (0.50 in.) ID × 25.4 mm (1.0 in.) OD; P/N: RR110-5/TF
50HZ-3KHZ [U8636011]
• SPO-6687 cable: connects reflection coil configuration probes with triaxial
Fischer/LEMO connector to NORTEC 500, 600, 1000 and 2000 Series instrument
(16-pin LEMO); 1.83 m (6 ft) length; P/N: SPO-6687 [U8800538]
• Sub-surface crack calibration standard; P/N: RSTD-10137 [U8863219]

1. Connect the probe and the cable to the PROBE connector on the NORTEC 600.
2. Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ) once, and then select APPL SELECT
(A key) to open the application selection menu. Select Sub-Surface with the knob,
then press to accept (see Figure 5-23 on page 133).
132 Chapter 5
Figure 5-23 The Sub-Surface application
1. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) once, and then set the FREQ (A key) to
220 Hz.
2. Place the probe directly on the good fastener on the standard, and then press and
hold the A-LIFT NULL key ( ) to activate the automatic lift-off function. When
LIFT PROBE is displayed, lift the probe vertically (try to avoid tilting) and wait
4. Place the probe above the good fastener again, and then press the A-LIFT NULL
key ( ).
5. Lift the probe into the air, and then place the probe on the cracked fastener and
press the FREEZE key ( ).

The resulting signal is shown in Figure 5-24 on page 134.

Figure 5-24 The signal on the cracked fastener
6. Press the ANGLE key ( ), and then use the knob to adjust the lower lift-off
signal so that it is as close to horizontal as possible (see Figure 5-25 on page 134).
Figure 5-25 The lower lift-off signal as close as possible to horizontal
7. Press the GAIN key ( ) three times to access the V GAIN parameter, and then
increase the vertical gain until the signal reaches the last vertical division on the
screen, which is equivalent to 90 % screen height (see Figure 5-26 on page 135).
134 Chapter 5
8. Press the FREEZE key ( ) to unfreeze the acquisition, and then press the FULL
NEXT key ( ) to toggle to full-screen mode (see Figure 5-27 on page 135).
To test the calibration, place the probe successively on the cracked and uncracked
fasteners, and ensure that the cracked fastener generates a vertical deflection.
While placing the ring probe, make sure to carefully aim it towards the center of
each fastener.
Figure 5-27 The signal in full-screen mode


1. If you are using a very low frequency probe (typically below 500 Hz), decrease
the low-pass setting, which can sometimes help to obtain cleaner signals.
Any low-pass value is acceptable.
2. Depending on your requirements, set the alarm box parameters, horn, or external
The list of all parameters is shown in Figure 5-28 on page 136.
NOTE
With this application, the results are better and interpretation much easier when the
signal from the cracked fastener is oriented at 90° with respect to the lift-off signal
from the good fastener. Using the proper frequency greatly improves interpretation of
the results. Figure 5-29 on page 137 shows examples of calibrations performed with
frequencies that were too low (left) and too high (right).
136 Chapter 5
Figure 5-29 Calibration with frequency too low (left) or too high (right)
5.1.4 Inspecting Welds on Ferromagnetic Materials — All NORTEC 600

Models
The procedure in this section is the easiest and most efficient way to perform a
general-purpose weld inspection on ferromagnetic material (such as carbon steel)
using the NORTEC 600.
Figure 5-30 Materials—welds on ferromagnetic material

• Weld surface probe: 100 kHz to 600 kHz, straight probe, 8.0 mm (0.314 in.) tip
diameter, 5.5 cm (2.16 in.) length, 4-pin LEMO connector; P/N: WLD-8-55
[U8690019]
• Cable: 1.83 m (6 ft) length, NORTEC 500, 600, 1000, and 2000 series instruments
(16 pin LEMO) to 4 pin LEMO for weld probes (4 pin LEMO); P/N: CN16-4L-6
[U8800276]
• Weld surface reference standard with certifications: steel with EDM notch depths
of 0.5 mm, 1.0 mm, and 2.0 mm (0.02 in, 0.04 in., and 0.08 in.); block overall
dimensions 25.4 mm × 101.6 mm × 6.4 mm (1 in. × 4 in. × 0.25 in.) with four
0.5 mm (0.0197 in.) nonconductive shims to simulate paint thickness; P/N: SRSM-
51020S-WLD [U8860571]

(A key) to open the application selection menu. Select Weld and Wheel with the
knob, and then press to accept (see Figure 5-31 on page 138).
3. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) to display the settings on the right side
of the screen.
Figure 5-31 The Weld and Wheel application
138 Chapter 5

1. Place the probe between two notches on the standard, position the longest face of
the probe tip (see Figure 5-32 on page 139) perpendicularly to the notches, and
then press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ).
Figure 5-32 The longest face of the probe tip
2. With the longest face of the probe tip oriented perpendicular to the notches,
inspect the 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) notch.
3. Press the FREEZE key ( ).

Figure 5-33 The signal on the notch

4. Press the ANGLE key ( ), and then rotate the knob until the notch signal is
oriented vertically (see Figure 5-34 on page 140).
Figure 5-34 The notch signal oriented vertically
5. Press the GAIN key ( ) once, and adjust the H/V GAIN until the notch signal
reaches about 80 % of the screen height (see Figure 5-35 on page 140).
6. Press the FREEZE key ( ) to unfreeze the acquisition, press the FULL NEXT
key ( ) to toggle to the full-screen mode, place the probe on the standard (the
140 Chapter 5
probe’s longest face still parallel to the notches), and then press the A-LIFT NULL
key ( ) to scan the entire standard.

Figure 5-36 The signal after scanning the entire standard

automatically refresh the screen. For more details about screen erase options, see
“D ERASE (display erase)” on page 85 and “PERSIST (variable persistence)” on
page 85.
You can also check if any other grids and screen display modes might be useful
for your purposes; for example, SWP+IMP. For more details about screen options,
see “Display Menu — DISP Key” on page 83 and “Display Menu in Dual
Frequency — DISP Key” on page 111.
3. Confirm that the value of the maximum signal amplitude and signal angle are
displayed by default, as shown in the example in Figure 5-37 on page 142. For
more details about the reading type or position in the impedance plane display,
see “Displaying Real-Time Readings” on page 54.

Figure 5-37 The default display of maximum signal amplitude and signal angle
To inspect an actual part (recommended procedure)

1. Check the paint thickness on the part you are inspecting, and calibrate the weld
probe using the proper shim thickness that corresponds with the measured paint
thickness.
2. Inspect the heat-affected zone using up to two scan motions (horizontal and
vertical), and be sure to cover any weld discontinuities with your scan motion:
a) Inspect the toe of the weld using a longitudinal motion.
b) Inspect the cap of the weld using a tight scan pattern.
c) Inspect all weld crevices using a longitudinal motion.
d) Finally, inspect the weld cap using a longitudinal motion, but with the probe
set perpendicular to the scan motion, which helps detect any transverse
cracks.
3. Practice your weld inspection; for example, by using an optional weld sample,
such as Olympus P/N: WLD SAMPLE [U8860581].
Make sure that you are able to correctly interpret the signal obtained at various
inspection positions. Null the instrument to compensate for any variations in
weld geometry.
142 Chapter 5
5.1.5 Evaluating Paint Thickness on Ferromagnetic Material — All

NORTEC 600 Models
This section presents an improved version of a widely-used, well-known paint
thickness evaluation procedure using eddy currents. A precise determination of paint
thickness enables you to properly calibrate for a weld inspection.
Figure 5-39 Materials—paint thickness on ferromagnetic material

• Paint thickness probe; P/N: NEC-2236 5-250KHZ-2M-4L [U8629568]

• Cable: 1.83 m (6 ft) length, NORTEC 500, 600, 1000, and 2000 series instruments
(16 pin LEMO) to 4 pin LEMO for weld probe (4 pin LEMO). P/N: CN16-4L-6
[U8800276]
• Weld surface reference standard with certifications: steel with EDM notch depths
of 0.5 mm, 1.0 mm, and 2.0 mm (0.02 in, 0.04 in., and 0.08 in.); block overall
dimensions 25.4 mm × 101.6 mm × 6.4 mm (1 in. × 4 in. × 0.25 in.) with four
0.5 mm (0.0197 in.) nonconductive shims to simulate paint thickness; P/N: SRSM-
51020S-WLD [U8860571]

(A key) to open the application selection menu. Select Surface Cracks with the
3. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) once, and then set the FREQ (A key) to
10 kHz using the knob.
4. Press the ALARM menu key ( ), and then deactivate ALARM 1 (A key).
144 Chapter 5
5. Press the DISP menu key ( ) twice, and then set the GRID (D key) to 10 × 10
using the knob.
6. Press the DISP menu key ( ), and then set the H POS (D key) to 100 % using
the knob.
7. Set the V POS (E key) to 20 % using the knob.

1. Place the probe on the standard, between two notches (without any shim), and
then press and hold the A-LIFT NULL key ( ) to activate the automatic lift-off
function.
3. Place the entire stack of shims (four 0.5 mm shims, or 2.0 mm thickness) on the
standard, and then, while firmly pressing the probe on the shim stack, press the
GAIN key ( ) to decrease the gain until the dot reaches the limit on the left
side of the 10 × 10 grid (0 % horizontal) [see Figure 5-41 on page 145].
Figure 5-41 Decreasing the GAIN to adjust the signal

4. While firmly pressing the probe on the 2.0 mm thick shim stack, increase the V
POS (E key) to 100 % using the knob, and then decrease it back to 20 %.
The instrument creates a recording in the form of a vertical mark on the screen
Figure 5-42 Adjusting V POS to create a vertical mark
5. Repeat step 4 for each of the other shim thicknesses (1.5 mm, 1.0 mm, and
0.5 mm).
The instrument records a vertical line for each simulated paint thickness (see
Figure 5-43 The vertical lines for different thicknesses
146 Chapter 5
6. Press and hold the REF SAVE key ( ) to set the current signal as the reference
signal.
7. Set the V POS (E key) to 50 %, and then press the ERASE key ( ).
The paint thickness setup is now complete and ready to be used in evaluations.
8. Evaluate your subsequent paint thickness reading using the vertical reference
marks (see Figure 5-44 on page 147).
If necessary, you can increase your resolution by calibrating with a greater
number of thinner shims.
Figure 5-44 Using the vertical reference marks for thickness evaluation

 Refer to the list of all parameters, shown in Figure 5-45 on page 148.
The default setting for the reading type (RDG1 TYP) is VMAX, which uses the
vertical maximum amplitude. For this procedure, however, it is recommended to
select HMAX, which uses the horizontal maximum amplitude. For more details
about the reading type or position in the impedance plane display, see
“Displaying Real-Time Readings” on page 54.

5.1.6 Measuring Conductivity and Nonconductive Coating Thickness —

NORTEC 600C, NORTEC 600S, and NORTEC 600D Models
NOTE
The instrument function for measuring conductivity and nonconductive coatings can
only be activated by connecting a NORTEC conductivity probe to one of the following
NORTEC 600 models: 600C, 600S, and 600D.
The NORTEC 600 instrument automatically detects a PowerLink conductivity probe

(16-pin LEMO, 60 kHz, or 480 kHz) when it is connected to the instrument. With this
probe type, the instrument reconfigures the operating parameters to permit
conductivity measurements. In this operating mode, only the conductivity is
displayed. The eddy current signal is not displayed.
148 Chapter 5
Figure 5-46 Materials—conductivity and non-conductive coating thickness
• Conductivity probe: 60 kHz, right-angle probe, 20 mm (0.750 in.) tip diameter,

25.4 mm (1.00 in.) length, 16-pin LEMO connector, Alarm LED included;
P/N: 9222340 [U8690027]
• Conductivity standard block with 2 coupons (29.85 % and 59.39 %); P/N: 9522103
[U8880111]
• 4 mil shim samples: 0.1 mm (0.004 in.) thick, set of two; P/N: 0320806 [U8840160]

1. Connect the conductivity probe cable to the NORTEC 600 instrument’s PROBE
connector to access the conductivity function (see Figure 5-47 on page 150).

Figure 5-47 Accessing the Conductivity function
2. When prompted, select CONTINUE (A key) to accept the PowerLink information

Figure 5-48 The displayed instruction (1) after PowerLink acceptance
IMPORTANT
• To ensure reliable results, you should leave the instrument turned on and the
probe connected for at least 15 minutes prior to a calibration.
150 Chapter 5
• You should also perform the calibration in the environment where the
conductivity measurements will be taken (constant temperature and
environmental conditions). Any changes in temperature can have an adverse
effect on the measurements.
1. Follow the instruction as prompted on the display:

 Place the probe on the lowest IACS percentage standard without a shim. Set
the conductivity value for calibration point 1 (COND1) by rotating the knob
to the value of the certified standard, and then selecting STORE1 (E key).
COND 2 (B key) is then highlighted on the display.
2. Place the probe on the highest IACS percentage standard without a shim. Set the
conductivity value for calibration point 2 (COND2) by rotating the knob to the
value of the certified standard, and then selecting STORE2 (E key).
COATING (C key) is then highlighted on the display (see Figure 5-49 on
page 151).
3. Place the probe on the lowest IACS percentage standard with the 4 mil shim, and
then select STORE3 (E key).
Figure 5-49 The displayed instruction (3)
COATING (C key) is then highlighted on the display (see Figure 5-50 on

page 152).
4. Place the probe on the highest IACS percentage standard with the 4 mil shim, and
then select STORE4 (E key).

Figure 5-50 The displayed instruction (4)
5. Complete the calibration by selecting DONE after Success is displayed (see

Figure 5-51 The confirmation of a completed calibration
6. Use the NORTEC 600 instrument and probe to measure the conductivity of the
test material and the thickness of the nonconductive paint layer on the test
material.
152 Chapter 5
Conductivity measurement screen

After a successful calibration, the conductivity measurement screen is displayed. This
screen displays the conductivity and coating thickness values. A bar graph shows the
current measurement value (between the minimum and maximum values), and
arrows indicate the minimum and maximum alarm thresholds (if enabled).
NOTE
Conductivity measurements continue until the conductivity probe is disconnected,
which closes the measurement window. If the instrument senses that there is no
longer a conductive surface under the conductivity probe, the conductivity and
coating thickness readings on the screen are refreshed (renewed).
Conductivity mode with impedance plane

While in conductivity/coating thickness mode, the NORTEC 600 can display an
impedance plane. To activate this view, press and hold the MAIN FILTER menu key
( ), and then press the GAIN key ( ). However, the functionalities of this
special function have yet to be tested, so it should only be used for research purposes
and none of the parameters should be changed.
To save measurements
 Save your conductivity and coating thickness measurements at any time by
pressing the REF SAVE key ( ). Saved measurements can be reviewed later in
the datalogger or in the memory screen.
To set alarms for conductivity and coating thickness

High and low threshold alarm settings are available for conductivity and coating
thickness measurements. Alarms can be set as positive or negative and with or
without an audible alarm sound.

NOTE
The instrument’s conductivity and coating thickness mode must be activated in order
to access the alarm setups described in this section.
1. Press the ALARM menu key ( ).

2. Press the A key, and then rotate the knob to set the desired COND LO
(conductivity low) value.
3. Press the B key, and then rotate the knob to the desired COND HI (conductivity
high) value.
4. Press the C key, and then set the polarity of the alarm:
 Choose POSITIVE to enable an alarm when the conductivity is between the
low and high value.
OR
Choose NEGATIVE to enable an alarm when the conductivity is outside the
low or high value.
5. Press the E key to enable the audible alarm (HORN), and then rotate the knob to
the OFF, LOW, or HIGH setting.
To set the coating thickness alarm
1. Press the ALARM menu key ( ) twice (or, if you have just set up the
conductivity alarm, press only once).
2. Press the A key, and then rotate the knob to the desired THCK LO (low thickness)
value.
3. Press the B key, and then rotate the knob to the desired THCK HI (high thickness)
value.
4. Press the C key, and then set the polarity of the alarm:
 Choose POSITIVE to enable an alarm when the coating thickness is between
the low and high value.
OR
Choose NEGATIVE to enable an alarm when the coating thickness is outside
the low or high value.
5. Press the E key to enable the audible alarm (HORN), and then rotate the knob to
the OFF, LOW, or HIGH setting.
154 Chapter 5
5.1.7 Inspecting Aircraft Wheels — All NORTEC 600 Models

This section contains an example procedure for inspecting aluminum aircraft wheels.
Figure 5-52 Materials—aircraft wheels
• Special-purpose aircraft wheel inspection probe; P/N: WP-3-1537-L

• Cable: 1.83 m (6 ft) length, bridge coil configuration, 16 pin LEMO to
Fischer/LEMO triaxial (SPO-6472). P/N: 9122244 [U8800091]
• Special-purpose aircraft wheel inspection standard; P/N: WS-3-1537
NOTE
Any wheel probe with matching standard can be used for this application.


(A key) to open the application selection menu. Select Weld and Wheel with the
Figure 5-53 The Weld and Wheel application
1. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), and set the FREQ (A key) to 200 kHz
using the knob.
2. Place the probe at the approximate midpoint on the standard (between two
notches), and then, while firmly pressing the probe on the standard, press the A-
LIFT NULL key ( ).

3. Scan the standard using a back-and-forth motion, press the GAIN key ( ), and
then adjust the signal amplitude (with the knob) until the signals extend across
approximately 80 % of the screen width (see Figure 5-54 on page 157).
156 Chapter 5
Figure 5-54 The signals extending across the screen
4. When the signals extend across 80 % of the screen width, press the ERASE key
( ).
5. Scan the center notch only, and then press the FREEZE key ( ) [see Figure 5-55
on page 157].
Lift-off before
horizontal
adjustment
Figure 5-55 Scanning the center notch
6. Press the ANGLE key ( ), and then adjust the signal angle with the knob so
that the lift-off (probe motion) signal is as horizontal as possible (see Figure 5-56
on page 158).

To achieve an adequate fine ANGLE adjustment, it may be necessary to switch to
the fine-adjustment mode by pressing the Enter key ( ) while adjusting the
ANGLE.
Lift-off after
horizontal
adjustment
Figure 5-56 Setting the signal as close as possible to horizontal
7. Press the GAIN key ( ) 3 times to access the V GAIN parameter, and then
increase the vertical gain with the knob until the signals reach about 80 % of the
screen height (see Figure 5-57 on page 158).
Figure 5-57 The signals extending vertically across the screen
158 Chapter 5
8. Press the FREEZE key ( ) to unfreeze the acquisition, place the probe between
two notches on the standard, press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ), and then scan the
standard.
The resulting signal should resemble the example shown in Figure 5-58 on
page 159. If necessary, freeze the signal again and fine-tune the vertical gain or
angle.
Figure 5-58 The results after scanning the standard

the standard.
The resulting signal should resemble the example shown in Figure 5-59 on
page 160. Note that the value of the maximum signal amplitude and the signal
angle are displayed by default. For more details about the reading type or
position in the impedance plane display, see “Displaying Real-Time Readings” on
page 54.

Figure 5-59 The signal after fine tuning
5.1.8 Inspecting Critical Fastener Holes with a Controlled Translation

(Indexing) Scanner — NORTEC 600S and NORTEC 600D Models
This section contains a procedure for inspecting critical fastener holes using Olympus
indexing rotating scanner model PS5-AL. The NORTEC 600 includes a very useful
waterfall cursor function, which enables you to easily estimate the location of defects
in aircraft skin assemblies.
160 Chapter 5
• PS5-AL indexing scanner (product discontinued)

• Reflection probe for PS5: 200 kHz to 1 MHz, RD 0.250 (reflection differential
6.4 mm [0.25 in.]); P/N: 9217572 [U8616045]
• Eddy current hole standard for demonstration purposes (not certified); P/N:
RSTD-10135 [U8863213]

1. Connect the probe to the rotating scanner (align the connector marks), and then
connect the scanner cable to both the rotating scanner and the PROBE connector
on the NORTEC 600.
2. When prompted, select CONTINUE (A key) to accept the PowerLink
information.
(A key) to open the application selection menu. Select Indexing Scanner with the
knob, then press to accept (see Figure 5-61 on page 161).
Figure 5-61 The Indexing Scanner application

1. Adjust the probe’s Z position (for indexing) so that it extends halfway down into
the calibration hole.

For more information on operating the PS5 indexing scanner, refer to the
scanner’s User’s Manual.
2. Ensure that the scanner motor is turned off before initial instrument nulling, place
the probe in the good hole, and then press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ).
3. Place the probe in the hole with EDM notches, and then adjust the index axis so
that the probe rotates freely next to a defect area.
Leave the scanner in the R position (rotation).
4. Turn on the scanner motor, and then press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( )
twice, and set the SCAN RPM (E key) to 240.
5. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), and then change the FILT TYP (C key)
to FIG 6 (see Figure 5-62 on page 162).
NOTE
This procedure uses the Figure 6 filter setting. Olympus recommends using the
Figure 6 filter setting unless an absolute probe is being used, in which case the
Figure 8 filter setting might provide better performance. For more information about
the Figure 6 versus Figure 8 parameters, see “Inspecting Fastener Holes with a
Rotating Scanner — NORTEC 600S and NORTEC 600D Models” on page 122.
Figure 5-62 The Figure 6 filter
162 Chapter 5
6. Press the ANGLE key ( ), and then adjust the lift-off (probe-motion) angle so
that it is as horizontal as possible and the notch signal points upward (see
Figure 5-63 Adjusting the signal angle
10) Press the GAIN key ( ), and then decrease the horizontal gain until the notch
signal is contained within the first horizontal division (10 % horizontal) [see
Figure 5-64 on page 163].

11) Press the GAIN key ( ) twice, and then increase the V GAIN until the notch
signal reaches full screen height (100 % vertical) [see Figure 5-65 on page 164].
12) Press the DISP menu key ( ), and then set the SYNC ANG (D key) to center
the notch signal on the strip chart (see Figure 5-66 on page 164).
Figure 5-66 Adjusting the sync angle
7. Set the DSP MODE (A key) to WATERFALL.

8. Validate that the PS5 scanner is ready to perform a scan.
164 Chapter 5
The waterfall parameters should not be changed until the PS5 scanner is properly
adjusted following a scan.
9. Set the scanner to the T position (for testing), and then scan the entire hole.
10. Adjust both limit switches so that the probe fully scans the hole and then exits
freely into the air.
To maintain efficient inspection productivity, try to minimize the “air travel” time
outside the hole.
After the PS5 scanner is operating satisfactorily, you will be able to set the
waterfall parameters for a full waterfall display of the inspected hole.
The best results are obtained when the W END (D key) parameter is set to cover
an entire scanning motion.
11. Adjust the W END parameter to cover an entire scanning motion:
a) With the probe positioned at either end of the hole, press the E button on the
PS5 scanner, and then press the motor switch and scan the entire hole.
Closely observe the waterfall display and, if necessary, increase the W END
value (D key) if the waterfall display has been cut off, erased, or refreshed
before the scan is terminated.
b) When the probe reaches the other end of the hole, press the E key on the
scanner, and then scan the entire hole again.
Closely observe the waterfall display to check if a cut-off or incomplete scan
display occurs. If so, decrease the W END value (D key).
c) Repeat steps a–b until you find the right balance between two successive,
complete scans (in both directions) to fully produce two waterfall displays.
12. When the waterfall display is correct, set the W CURSOR (E key) [waterfall
cursor] to the estimated location of the boundary between two critical layers, and
adjust the W CURSOR while you continue complete scanning motions (see
After it is properly adjusted, the waterfall cursor is very useful in helping locate a
defect’s position both above and below the critical layer, and it can be used to
decide if a flaw should be accepted or rejected.

Figure 5-67 Using the waterfall cursor
the standard.
The scan result should resemble the example image shown in Figure 5-68 on
page 166.
Figure 5-68 The scan result
166 Chapter 5
5.2 Special and Educational Applications
This section provides basic setting recommendations for older eddy current
procedures that are still used in eddy current training classes. These training
procedures are useful in explaining the effect that various parameters have on eddy
currents, parameters such as lift-off, resistivity, frequency, magnetic permeability,
thickness, and discontinuities.
The four applications included in this section all use the following equipment (see
Figure 5-70 on page 168):

Figure 5-70 Materials—special and educational applications
• Surface probe: reflection detachable surface probe with a diameter of 11.2 mm

(0.44 in.) and an operating range of 500 Hz to 60 kHz (equivalent to APBK/10.5/S,
SPO-2025), triaxial Fischer/LEMO connector; P/N: 9213552 SR/500Hz-60KHZ-/.44
[U8623007]
• SPO-6687 cable for reflection coil configuration probes with triaxial
Fischer/LEMO connector to NORTEC 500, 600, 1000, or 2000 series instrument
(16 pin LEMO), 1.83 m (6 ft.) length; P/N: SPO-6687 [U8800538]
• General purpose demonstration and training standard; P/N: NEC-6151-SD
[U8861706]
5.2.1 Using the Impedance Plane Theory and Display — All NORTEC 600
Models
This application is usually one of the first topics used to explain basic eddy current
theory in eddy current training classes.
168 Chapter 5
To use the impedance plane theory and display

3. Press the DISP menu key ( ), and set the POSITION (C key) to TOP CNTR.
4. Press the DISP menu key ( ) again, and set the GRID (D key) to OFF.
5. Press the ALARM menu key ( ), and set the ALARM 1 (A key) to OFF.
6. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), and set the FREQ (A key) to 60 kHz.
7. Set the GAIN (C key) to approximately 40 dB.
8. Hold the probe in the air, and then press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ).
9. Gently touch the ferrite sample with the probe, and continue to repeatedly gently
tap the sample (see Figure 5-72 on page 170). While tapping, press the ANGLE
key ( ) and adjust the ferrite signal angle until it is oriented straight upward
(90°) [see Figure 5-73 on page 170].

Figure 5-72 The section of the standard used for impedance plane theory
Figure 5-73 Adjusting the signal angle to 90°
10. Place the probe on the 45 % conductivity sample, and then press the GAIN key
( ) and decrease the gain until the live dot is within screen area (see
170 Chapter 5
11. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to toggle to full-screen mode, then successively
place the probe on each sample to display the effect of conductivity and magnetic
permeability on the impedance plane (see Figure 5-75 on page 171).
Figure 5-75 Displaying the effect of conductivity and magnetic permeability
5.2.2 Sorting Metals by Evaluating Conductivity — All NORTEC 600 Models

This application shows how to sort metals by using differences in conductivity and
resistivity, which can be viewed on the impedance plane display. This method is only
valid for nonferromagnetic metals.

To sort metals by evaluating conductivity

3. Press the DISP menu key ( ), and set the POSITION (C key) to BOT RGHT.
6. Place the probe on the 45 % conductivity sample (see Figure 5-77 on page 173),
and then press and hold the A-LIFT NULL key ( ) to activate the automatic lift-
off function.
172 Chapter 5
Figure 5-77 The section of the standard used for conductivity evaluation
8. Place the probe successively on the 17 %, 32 % and, 45 % conductivity samples,
and then press the FREEZE key ( ) when done (see Figure 5-78 on page 173).
Figure 5-78 The signals from different conductivity samples
9. Press the ANGLE key ( ), and then adjust the lower signal (45 %
conductivity) so that it is horizontal (see Figure 5-79 on page 174).

Figure 5-79 Adjusting the lower signal to horizontal
10. Press the GAIN key ( ) 3 times to access the V GAIN parameter, and increase
the vertical gain until the upper signal reaches 90 % of the screen height (see
11. Press the ALARM menu key ( ) twice, and then set the TOP (B key) to 65 %,
the BOTTOM (B key) to 35 %, and the LEFT (D key) to 30 %.
12. Press the ALARM menu key ( ) twice again, and then set the HORN (E key)
to ON.
174 Chapter 5
NEXT key ( ) to toggle to full-screen mode.

14. Place the probe on the different conductivity samples, and evaluate the vertical
positions of the signals to decide whether to accept or reject the sample (see
Figure 5-81 on page 175). The vertical position, or height, of the signal’s end point
represents the conductivity value that is used for acceptance or rejection, and the
horizontal position represents the lift-off.
Figure 5-81 Using the vertical position of the signal to accept or reject the sample
5.2.3 Evaluating Nonconductive Coating (Paint) Thickness — All

NORTEC 600 Models
This section contains a simple, older procedure for evaluating coating (paint)
thickness based on lift-off signal.
To evaluate nonconductive coating thickness


3. Press the DISP menu key ( ), and set the POSITION (C key) to BOT CNTR.
6. Turn the standard upside down (to expose the larger face; see Figure 5-83 on
page 176), place the probe on an area that is free of defects, and then press the A-
LIFT NULL key ( ).
Figure 5-83 The back of the standard
7. Lift the probe away from the surface, and then bring the probe down and touch
the sample again; while repeating these motions, press the ANGLE key ( )
176 Chapter 5
and adjust the lift-off angle until it is oriented straight upward (90°) [see
Figure 5-84 Adjusting the lift-off angle to 90°
8. Press the ERASE key ( ), place the probe on the sample again (this time use a
larger lift-off or paint thickness value; for example, the thickness of three business
cards), and then press the GAIN key ( ), and decrease the gain until the live
dot is within the screen area and is at about 90 % of the screen height (see

9. Press the DISP menu key ( ), and then, while holding the probe on the three
business cards, adjust the H POS (D key) to 0 %, then up to 100 %, and back
down to 50 %.
A horizontal mark is created (see Figure 5-86 on page 178).
Figure 5-86 Using H POS to create a horizontal mark
10. Repeat step 9 using two business cards, and then again using one business card to
create more horizontal marks (see Figure 5-87 on page 178).
Figure 5-87 Creating more horizontal marks
178 Chapter 5
11. Press and hold the REF SAVE key ( ), and then press the ERASE key ( ) to
clear the live signals (see Figure 5-88 on page 179).
You can now evaluate unknown paint thicknesses using the vertical signal
deflection, which represents the lift-off.
Alternatively, depending on your preferences, you can use the alarm to create a
simple accept/reject test.
Figure 5-88 Using the vertical signal deflection to evaluate unknown thicknesses
5.2.4 Evaluating Metal Thickness and Using Thickness Curve Theory — All
NORTEC 600 Models
This section outlines the typical thickness curve that is associated with phase lag and
skin-depth eddy current theory.
To evaluate the metal thickness and use thickness curve theory

1. Connect the probe and the cable into the PROBE connector on the NORTEC 600.

3. Press the DISP menu key ( ), and set the POSITION (C key) to BOT RGHT.
4. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), and set the FREQ (A key) to 1.5 kHz.
Alternatively, you can also experiment with other frequencies, such as 500 Hz,
1 kHz, 3 kHz, and 5 kHz.
5. Place the probe on the thickest part of the standard’s tapered area (see Figure 5-90
on page 180), and then press and hold the A-LIFT NULL key ( ) to activate the
automatic lift-off function.
Figure 5-90 The section of the standard used for metal thickness
180 Chapter 5
7. Press the ERASE key ( ), then slowly scan the tapered area, and then, after
completing the scan, press the FREEZE key ( ).

An example of the resulting scan is shown in Figure 5-91 on page 181.
Figure 5-91 The scan of the tapered area
8. Press the ANGLE key ( ), and then adjust the lift-off angle so that it is
horizontal (see Figure 5-92 on page 182).

Figure 5-92 Adjusting the lift-off angle to horizontal
9. Press the GAIN key ( ), and then increase the gain until the signal extends
across most of the screen (see Figure 5-94 on page 183).
NEXT key ( ) to toggle to full-screen mode.

11. Scan the standard’s tapered area, and observe the thickness curve (see Figure 5-94
on page 183).
182 Chapter 5
TIP
Use the SET REF function to record a background trace while another frequency is
being tested.
Figure 5-94 The scan of the tapered part
5.3 Advanced Dual Frequency Applications
This section contains several procedures that provide advanced details on the dual-
frequency function of the NORTEC 600.
NOTE
All procedures in this section are presented using the OFFICE color-scheme setting.
This color scheme is used to help you follow the instructions, which feature up to
three colored signal traces.

5.3.1 Detecting Corrosion Using Dual Frequency to Reduce the Pillowing

Effect — NORTEC 600D Model
The procedure in this section uses dual frequency to help reduce the pillowing effect.
This reduction facilitates the detection of subsurface corrosion in aircraft fuselages.
Figure 5-95 Materials—dual frequency for corrosion
• Surface probe: a standard reflection detachable surface probe with a diameter of -

11.2 mm (0.44 in.) and an operating range of 500 Hz to 60 kHz (equivalent to
APBK/10.5/S, SPO-2025), triaxial Fischer/LEMO connector; P/N: 9213552
SR/500Hz-60KHZ-/.44 [U8623007]
Fischer/LEMO connector to NORTEC 500, 600, 1000, or 2000 series instrument (16
pin LEMO), 1.83 m (6 ft) length; P/N: SPO-6687 [U8800538]
• Special-purpose corrosion standard with pillowing inserts; P/N: RSTD-10145
[Q8600068]
184 Chapter 5

1. Connect the probe and the cable into the PROBE connector on the NORTEC 600.
(A key) to open the application selection menu. Select Dual Frequency Sub-
Surface with the knob, then press to accept (see Figure 5-96 on page 185).
Figure 5-96 The Dual Frequency Sub-Surface application
3. Press the DISP menu key ( ) twice, and then set the POSITION (C key) to
TOP LEFT using the knob.
4. Press the DISP menu key ( ) again, and then set the POS 2 (C key) to TOP
LEFT using the knob.
5. Press the DISP menu key ( ) again, and then set the MIX DISP (A key) to OFF
using the knob.
6. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) four times, and then set the LO PASS
(B key) to 50 Hz.
7. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) again, and then set the PRB DRV
(A key) to HIGH.
8. Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ), select ALL SETTINGS (B key), press
the E key, and then press the C key. Set the RDG1 CHN to MIX, then press the

FULL NEXT key ( ) four times and set the RDG2 TYP to OFF. When done,
press the Return key ( ).
The list of dual frequency parameters is shown in Figure 5-97 on page 186.
Figure 5-97 The list of dual frequency parameters
1. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) once, and then set the FREQ (A key)
value to 3.0 kHz using the knob.
2. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) again, and then set the FREQ 2 (A key)
value to 1.0 kHz.
3. Place the probe on position 1 of the standard (see Figure 5-98 on page 187), and
then, while firmly pressing the probe on the standard, press the A-LIFT NULL
key ( ).
186 Chapter 5
Figure 5-98 Position 1 of the standard
4. Lift the probe into the air, then begin to gently tap the probe on position 1 of the
standard, and, while tapping, press the ANGLE key ( ), and then adjust the
ANGLE (for frequency 1) until the lift-off signal is oriented towards the right side
of the screen (the green signal in Figure 5-99 on page 187).
If necessary, you can press the ERASE key ( ) to clear screen, which may
make it easier to adjust the ANGLE value.
Figure 5-99 Adjusting the angle of the frequency 1 lift-off signal
5. While continuing to gently tap the probe on position 1, press the ANGLE key
( ) twice to open the ANGLE 2 parameter, and then adjust the angle of the
frequency 2 lift-off signal until it also is oriented towards the right side of the
screen, superposed on the frequency 1 signal (see Figure 5-100 on page 188).

Figure 5-100 Adjusting the angle of the frequency 2 lift-off signal
6. Place the probe on position 1, and then press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ).
7. Place the probe on position 2 (see Figure 5-101 on page 188), and then press the
FREEZE key ( ).
Figure 5-101 Position 2 on the standard
An example of the resulting frozen signals is shown in Figure 5-102 on page 189.
188 Chapter 5
Frozen signal
indication
Figure 5-102 The frozen signals
8. Press the GAIN key ( ), and then increase the frequency 1 gain until the
frequency 1 signal at position 2 is at 20 % of the screen height (see Figure 5-103 on
page 189).
Figure 5-103 Adjusting the gain for frequency 1
9. Press the GAIN key ( ) three more times, and then increase the frequency 2
gain until the frequency 2 signal at position 2 is also at 20 % of the screen height

Figure 5-104 Adjusting the gain for frequency 2
10. Press the FREEZE key ( ) to unfreeze the acquisition.
11. Press the DISP menu key ( ), and then set the DSP MODE (A key) to IMP, set
the CHANNEL (B key) to MIX, and set the POSITION (C key) to BOT RGHT.
12. Place the probe again on position 1, and then press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ).
13. Lift the probe into the air, press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), and then,
while gently tapping the probe on position 1, decrease the H GAIN (D key) of
frequency 1 until the lift-off signal of the MIX channel is oriented nearly
horizontally (see Figure 5-105 on page 191).
If necessary, use the ERASE key ( ) to clear the screen for easier adjustments.
190 Chapter 5
Figure 5-105 Adjusting the H GAIN for frequency 1
14. Place the probe on position 1 again, and then press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ).
15. While firmly pressing the probe at position 2 on the standard, observe the MIX
signal point, and then press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) and decrease the
H GAIN 2 (D key) until the MIX signal operating point does not extend more
than 3 divisions to the left of the null point (see Figure 5-106 on page 191).
Figure 5-106 Adjusting the H GAIN 2 value

16. Place the probe on position 1 again, press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ), and then
press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) repeatedly until the FREQ 1 page is
shown.
17. Tilt the probe at an arbitrary angle on position 1, observe the lift-off signal from
the MIX channel, and then decrease the H GAIN (D key) until the lift-off signal
from the MIX channel is oriented toward the left (see Figure 5-107 on page 192).
Figure 5-107 Adjusting the H GAIN value
18. Place the probe on position 1, and then press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ).
19. Scan the three corrosion defects, and then press the FREEZE key ( ).
20. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) twice, and then decrease the V MIX GN
(D key) until the signal baseline fits between two horizontal divisions (see
192 Chapter 5
Figure 5-108 Adjusting the H MIX GN value
21. Increase the V MIX GN (E key) until the signal’s maximum amplitude reaches
80 % of the screen height (see Figure 5-109 on page 193).
Figure 5-109 Adjusting the V MIX GN value
23. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to toggle to the full-screen mode.
24. Null the probe with the A-LIFT NULL key ( ) on position 1, and then scan the
three corrosion defects.

The resulting signals should resemble the example shown in Figure 5-110 on
page 194.
Figure 5-110 The corrosion-defect scan result

194 Chapter 5
5.3.2 Detecting Sub-Surface Cracks Using Dual Frequency in a Lap Splice

with Anodized and Alodine Rivets — NORTEC 600D Model
The procedure in this section uses the dual frequency and mix channel functions to
help reduce undesirable signal variations caused by various fastener types during the
detection of subsurface cracks in aircraft lap splices.

Two plastic guides

mounted on alodine
reference standard
Figure 5-112 Materials—dual frequency for sub-surface cracks
• Sliding probe; P/N: NEC-4039 [U8633039]

Fischer/LEMO connector to NORTEC 500, 600, 1000, or 2000 series instrument (16
pin LEMO), 1.83 m (6 ft) length; P/N: SPO-6687 [U8800538]
• Special purpose anodized reference standard (P/N: NDT1087-4 [U8860779]) and
plastic guides for alodine reference standard (two of P/N: NDT1087-P1
[U8860784])
To set up the plastic guides

 Adjust the plastic guides along the fastener rows on the alodine reference
standard so that the sliding probe will be centered over the fasteners when sliding
over the fastener row.
196 Chapter 5
IMPORTANT
Make sure that the guides are properly adjusted for both fastener rows. Failure to
properly center the probe will lead to a very difficult calibration and possibly an
unusable setup.

2. Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ) once, and select APPL SELECT (A key)
to open the application selection menu. Select Dual Frequency Sub-Surface with
the knob, then press to accept (see Figure 5-113 on page 197).
Figure 5-113 The Dual Frequency Sub-Surface application
3. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) four times, and then set the LO PASS
(B key) to 50 Hz using the knob.
4. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) again, and then set the PRB DRV
(A key) to HIGH.
5. Press the DISP menu key ( ) twice, and then set the POSITION (C key) to
BOT RGHT.

6. Press the DISP menu key ( ) again, and then set the POS 2 (C key) to BOT
RGHT.
7. Press the DISP menu key ( ) again, and then set the MIX DISP (A key) to
OFF.
8. Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ), select ALL SETTINGS (B key), press
the E key, and then the C key. Set the RDG1 CHN to MIX, press the FULL NEXT
key ( ) four times, and then set the RDG2 TYP to OFF. When done, press the
Return key ( ).
The list of dual frequency parameters is shown in Figure 5-114 on page 198.
Figure 5-114 The list of dual frequency parameters
1. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), and then set the FREQ (A key) to
9.0 kHz.
to 2.2 kHz.

Make sure that the probe remains properly positioned between two fasteners.
198 Chapter 5
4. While holding the probe on position 1, insert two shims (business cards) under
the probe.
5. While holding the probe in place, press the ANGLE key ( ), and then adjust
the ANGLE until the signal is as horizontal as possible (20 % vertical) [see
Figure 5-116 Adjusting the ANGLE value
6. While holding the probe in place, press the ANGLE key ( ) again, and then
adjust the ANGLE 2 so that it is also as horizontal as possible (see Figure 5-117 on
page 200).

Figure 5-117 Adjusting the ANGLE 2 value
7. While still holding the probe, press the FREEZE key ( ).

The probe and business cards can now be put aside.
8. Press the GAIN key ( ), and then adjust the amplitude of the frequency 1
signal so that it is exactly 6 divisions away from the null point (on the left side)
[see Figure 5-118 on page 200].
Figure 5-118 Adjusting the amplitude of the frequency 1 signal
9. Press the GAIN key ( ) three more times, and then decrease the amplitude of
the frequency 2 signal so that it is exactly 6 divisions away from the null point (on
200 Chapter 5
the left side) [see Figure 5-119 on page 201].
Figure 5-119 Adjusting the amplitude of the frequency 2 signal


Always make sure that the probe is properly placed between two fasteners.
12. Scan the next fastener by moving the probe completely over the fastener, and then
press the FREEZE key ( ).

The resulting signals should resemble the example shown in Figure 5-120 on
page 202.

Figure 5-120 The fastener scan result
13. Press the GAIN key ( ) twice, and then decrease the horizontal amplitude of
the frequency 1 signal (green) until it extends exactly 5 divisions to the left of the
null point (see Figure 5-121 on page 202).
Figure 5-121 Adjusting the horizontal amplitude of the frequency 1 signal
14. Press the GAIN key ( ) again, and then increase the vertical amplitude of the
frequency 1 signal (green) until it extends exactly 4 divisions above the null point
202 Chapter 5
Figure 5-122 Adjusting the vertical amplitude of the frequency 1 signal
15. Press the GAIN key ( ) twice again, and then decrease the horizontal
amplitude of the frequency 2 signal (red) until it extends exactly 5 divisions to the
left of the null point (see Figure 5-123 on page 203).
Figure 5-123 Adjusting the horizontal amplitude of the frequency 2 signal
16. Press the GAIN key ( ) again, and then increase the vertical amplitude of the
frequency 2 signal (red) until it extends exactly 4 divisions above the null point

Figure 5-124 Adjusting the vertical amplitude of the frequency 2 signal
18. Press the DISP menu key ( ), and then set the DSP MODE (A key) to IMP, the
CHANNEL (B key) to MIX, and the POSITION (C key) to BOT RGHT.
19. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) three times, and then set the MIX ANG
(E key) to 180deg.
20. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) repeatedly until the FREQ 2 page is
displayed.
21. Place the probe on position 3 (see Figure 5-125 on page 205), and then press the A-
LIFT NULL key ( ).
204 Chapter 5
B 3
22. Move the probe over notch B, and then, while holding the probe at this position,
adjust the V GAIN 2 (E key) until the mix signal extends upward from the null
point 4 vertical divisions (see Figure 5-126 on page 205).
Figure 5-126 Adjusting the V GAIN 2 value
23. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) repeatedly until the FREQ 1 page is
displayed.
24. Place the probe on position 1, press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ), and then move
the probe back and forth over the next fastener on the left.
25. While constantly moving the probe, increase the V GAIN (E key) until the mix
signal is contained within the first vertical division above the null point (see

Figure 5-127 Adjusting the V GAIN value
26. If necessary, press the ERASE key ( ) to check the mix signal (see
Figure 5-128 Checking the Mix signal
27. Place the probe on position 1 and then press the A-LIFT NULL key ( ).
28. While holding the probe on position 1, insert a shim (one business card) under the
probe.
206 Chapter 5
29. While firmly pressing the probe on the business card, adjust the ANGLE (B key)
until the mix signal (orange) reaches the same vertical height as the null point (see
Figure 5-129 Adjusting the ANGLE value
30. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) once.

31. While firmly pressing the probe on the business card, adjust the H GAIN 2
(D key) until the mix signal extends about 5 horizontal divisions away from the
null point (see Figure 5-130 on page 207).
Figure 5-130 Adjusting the H GAIN 2 value

32. Depending on your requirements, press the DISP menu key ( ) again, and
then select your preferred D ERASE (A key) or PERSIST (B key) values.
33. Press the ALARM menu key ( ), and then set the ALARM 1 (A key) to MIX
POS.
34. Press the ALARM menu key ( ) again, and then set the BOTTOM (C key) to
50 %, the LEFT (D key) to −10 %, and the RIGHT (E key) to 110 %.
35. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to toggle to the full-screen mode.
36. Place the probe on position 1, and then perform a final scan of both fastener rows
Figure 5-131 The scan results for both fastener rows

 As desired, set the alarm box parameters, horn, or external horn (louder). For
more details about alarms, see “Alarm Menus” on page 222.
208 Chapter 5
5.3.3 Inspecting Heat Exchanger Tubing Using Dual Frequency —

NORTEC 600D Model
The procedure in this section uses the dual frequency function to remove the heat
exchanger’s tube-support signal in order to obtain cleaner readings of possible flaws
at support locations. You can use this procedure on any type of heat exchanger tubing
as long as it is nonferromagnetic. Although this procedure has been prepared using a
differential bobbin probe, other types of tube probe coils can also easily be used; for
example, differential pancake coils for air conditioner tubing. Several tips for absolute
measurements have been provided at the end of this section.
The frequency calculation for the prime frequency should follow the ASME standard
or be based on obtaining at least a 90° phase lag between the thru-wall hole and the
20 % outside flat-bottom holes. The following formula is also recommended:
Prime frequency = 5 × resistivity / (wall thickness)2
where
• Resistivity is in micro-ohm centimeters (µΩ-cm);
• Wall thickness is in millimeters (mm); and
• Frequency is in kilohertz (kHz).

The subtracting frequency should be at least half of the prime frequency. However,
since the NORTEC 600 allows fully independent frequencies, the best results are
obtained with a ratio of 4:1 between the highest and lowest frequency. This section’s
procedure has been prepared with frequency 1 as the highest frequency, though the
NORTEC 600 will function equally as well with frequency 2 as the highest frequency.
Foot switch—part 1
Cable—part 3 of
foot switch
Cable—part 2 of foot switch
Connector—part 4
of foot switch
EC bobbin probe Auxiliary absolute

Top of instrument tube adaptor
Calibration tube with ring
Figure 5-133 Materials—dual frequency for heat exchanger tubing
• Eddy current bobbin probe for heat exchanger tubing: absolute/differential,

14.8 mm (0.583 in.) diameter, 15 kHz center frequency, 20 m (65.6 ft) cable;
P/N: TEA-148-015-N05 [U8282109]
210 Chapter 5
• Tube probe adaptor (differential) including NULL and ERASE foot switch (P/N:
N600-TUBE-FTSW [U8779875]) and auxiliary absolute tube adaptor (P/N: DGL-
AF4-BNC-8 [U8779886])
• Admiralty brass calibration tube: OD 19 mm (0.75 in.), WT (wall thickness)
1.65 mm (0.065 in.); P/N: CT02-001-D16 [U8779241]

1. Connect the probe and the foot-switch adaptor cable to the PROBE connector on
the NORTEC 600.
2. Press the ADV SETUP menu key ( ) once, then select APPL SELECT (A key)
to open the application selection menu. Select Heat Exchanger Tubing with the
Figure 5-134 The Heat Exchanger Tubing application
3. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ), and then set the FREQ (A key) to
14 kHz.
to 3 kHz.

1. Place the probe in a defect-free zone of the calibration tube, and then press the
NULL foot switch.

2. Slowly scan the smallest thru-wall hole only, pressing the ERASE foot switch as
required to clear the screen. When the hole signal is visible on the NORTEC 600
screen, press the FREEZE key ( ). See Figure 5-135 on page 212.
Figure 5-135 The scan of the thru-wall hole
3. Press the ANGLE key ( ), and then rotate the frequency 1 signal (green) until
the hole signal reaches a phase of about 40° (see Figure 5-136 on page 213).
TIP
When scanning over the hole in a pulling motion, the probe’s lower lobe should
appear first on the screen.
212 Chapter 5
Figure 5-136 Adjusting the frequency 1 signal phase
4. Press the GAIN key ( ), and then increase the frequency 1 gain until the hole
signal reaches about 4 vertical divisions in height (see Figure 5-137 on page 213).
Figure 5-137 Adjusting the frequency 1 gain
5. Press the ANGLE key ( ) twice, and then adjust the angle of the frequency 2
signal (red) until the hole signal is oriented almost vertically (see Figure 5-138 on
page 214).
Make sure that the lower lobe appears first on the screen while scanning with a
pulling motion.

Figure 5-138 Adjusting the frequency 2 angle

7. Place the probe in a defect-free area near the tube’s support ring, and then press
the NULL foot switch. Scan the support ring and press the FREEZE key ( )
when done (see Figure 5-139 on page 214).
Figure 5-139 The scan of the support ring
8. Press the ANGLE key ( ) twice, and then set the support ring’s frequency 2
signal angle (red) so that it is nearly horizontal (see Figure 5-140 on page 215).
214 Chapter 5
Figure 5-140 Adjusting the angle of the frequency 2 signal on the support ring
9. Press the GAIN key ( ) four times, and then adjust the H/V GAIN 2 until the
support ring’s frequency 2 signal extends across approximately 10 horizontal
divisions on the screen (see Figure 5-142 on page 216).
Figure 5-141 Adjusting the gain of the frequency 2 signal on the support ring
11. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) repeatedly until the MIX menu is
displayed.

12. Place the probe in a defect-free area near the support ring, and then press the
NULL foot switch.
13. Press the AUTO MIX key (B key), and then slowly scan the support ring.
The NORTEC 600 records 5 seconds of the support ring’s signal and
automatically performs signal mixing (see Figure 5-142 on page 216).
Figure 5-142 The support ring scan with AUTO MIX
14. If necessary, repeat step 13 to practice scanning the support ring at the proper
speed.
15. Press the ERASE foot switch, and then scan the tube’s support ring again.
The MIX channel (orange) should display a very small, or nearly absent, support
signal (see Figure 5-143 on page 217).
216 Chapter 5
Figure 5-143 The support ring’s signal successfully subtracted
16. Place the probe next to the thru-wall hole, press the NULL foot switch, and then
scan the hole using a pulling motion (see Figure 5-144 on page 217).
Figure 5-144 The scan of the thru-wall hole

1. Improve the already-functional configuration by fine-tuning the settings:
a) Fine-tune the frequency 1 angle to obtain a 40.0 degree reading from the hole.
b) Change the real-time readings so that the MIX phase is displayed (for more
information, see “MIX Menu in Dual Frequency — MAIN FILTER Key” on
page 109).

c) Fine-tune the MIX angle (on the MIX page of the MAIN FILTER menu) to
also obtain 40.0 degrees or very close to this value (see Figure 5-145 on
page 218).
Figure 5-145 Fine-tuning the MIX angle
2. Press the FULL NEXT key ( ) to activate the full-screen mode, and then scan the
five flat-bottom holes.
The signal should resemble the image shown in Figure 5-146 on page 218.
Figure 5-146 The scan of the flat-bottom holes
218 Chapter 5
To activate alternate displays

1. Depending on your requirements, change the display parameters to display the
frequency 2 as a strip chart (sweep) by pressing the DISP menu key ( ) three
times and setting the FRQ2 DSP (A key) to AUTO Y (see Figure 5-148 on
page 220).
If necessary, adjust the SWP TIME (C Key) to display a longer sweep length.
TIP
Display the full tube length so that you can count the tube supports, and set the
V POS 2 (E key) as desired; for example, you can separate the signals so that they do
not interfere with each other.

Figure 5-148 The strip chart display
2. Depending on your requirements, switch to the MIX channel (alone) with the
WEB grid by pressing the DISP menu key ( ) repeatedly until the DISPLAY
page is shown and then setting the DSP MODE (A key) to IMP.
3. Set the CHANNEL (B key) to MIX, and then set the POSITION (C key) to
CENTER.
4. Press the DISP menu key ( ) again, set the GRID (D key) to WEB, press the
FULL NEXT key ( ) to toggle to the full-screen mode, and then scan the tube.
The web grid helps you quickly visualize the signal angle (see Figure 5-149 on
page 221).
220 Chapter 5
Figure 5-149 The web grid display
Absolute measurement
Absolute measurements can be obtained easily with the NORTEC 600 by using its
BNC connector. Absolute signals are useful for monitoring gradual or large
defects, such as erosion, corrosion, fretting wear, bulges, defects at expansion roll,
etc. Although it is possible to apply the above procedure to absolute signals, the
best results are generally obtained using lower frequencies starting at half the
prime frequency. Note that absolute response is generally not recommended for
small defects, such as the flat bottom holes in the calibration tube.
To perform absolute measurements

1. While keeping the foot switch adaptor connected to the NORTEC 600, disconnect
the probe from the foot switch adaptor and connect it to the BNC adaptor
(P/N: DGL-AF4-BNC-8 [U8779886]), which you must then connect to the
instrument.
2. Load the Heat Exchanger Tubing application from the application selection menu
(see step 2).
3. Press the MAIN FILTER menu key ( ) repeatedly until the SPECIAL page is
displayed, and then set the PRB CONN to BNC.
4. Follow steps 1–16 to calibrate the signals.

TIP
To generate an alternative useful signal display, you can lower the null point (for
example, to a near-bottom center position on the screen) and activate the COARSE
grid (see Figure 5-150 on page 222). With these adjustments, you can expect lower
instrument gain settings.
Figure 5-150 The display with adjusted null point and coarse grid
5.4 Alarm Menus
The NORTEC 600 instrument’s alarm options include BOX, SWEEP, SECTOR, or
POLAR. Up to three alarms may be used at any time. You can define the size, shape,
position, and polarity of each alarm. Owing to the number of alarm options, the alarm
definitions are grouped into submenus in the definition menu (DEFINE). There is a
submenu for each alarm that is enabled (ALARM 1, ALARM 2, and ALARM 3).
5.4.1 Alarm DEFINE Menu

The DEFINE menu is used to enable alarms and to set alarm polarity, the length of
time an alarm is active, and whether or not an alarm is audible. The DEFINE menu’s
available controls are ALARM 1, ALARM 2, ALARM 3, DWELL, and HORN (see
Figure 5-151 on page 223). Control functions for single frequency instruments
(NORTEC 600, 600C, and 600S models) are described below. Additional details for
222 Chapter 5
alarms in dual frequency mode (NORTEC 600D) are detailed in “Dual Frequency
Menus” on page 105.
Figure 5-151 Alarm DEFINE menu
ALARM 1
Enables ALARM 1, and selects a positive or negative polarity (FRQ1 POS or
FRQ1 NEG) and turns off the alarm (OFF). By default, this alarm is set to OFF.
ALARM 2
ALARM 3
DWELL
Enables the length of time the instrument stays in an alarm condition after the
alarm threshold has been reached. DWELL can be set for a time period between
0 seconds and 10 seconds, in 0.2 second intervals. DWELL affects both the
internal and the external HORN, and the screen’s display indicators. By default,
DWELL is set to 0 seconds.
HORN
Enables and disables the internal and external HORN, or audible alarm (beep).
The available settings are ON or OFF, and by default HORN is set to OFF.

To define an alarm
1. Press the ALARM menu key ( ) to access the ALARM 1 menu.

2. Press the A, B, or C key to highlight the alarm you wish to enable.
3. Use the knob to select the alarm’s polarity; FRQ1 POS enables a positive polarity
alarm and FRQ1 NEG enables a negative polarity alarm (see Figure 5-152 on
page 224).
After you have selected the polarity (FRQ1 POS or FRQ1 NEG), a box is
displayed on the screen.
Figure 5-152 Alarm polarity
4. Press the D key to highlight the alarm DWELL time, and then use the knob to
adjust the DWELL time to the desired value (0.0 s to 10.0 s, in 0.2 s intervals).
5. Press the E key to enable the alarm HORN, and then rotate the knob to the
desired value (ON or OFF).
5.4.2 Selecting the Alarm Shape and Position — Alarm 1, 2, and 3 Menus
The shape and position is defined individually for each alarm.
To select the alarm shape and position
224 Chapter 5
2. Press the A key to highlight the alarm SHAPE, and then use the knob to select the
desired alarm type: BOX, SWEEP, SECTOR, or POLAR (see Figure 5-153 on
page 225).
Figure 5-153 Alarm menu
3. Use the B, C, D, and E keys (as required) to select the position and change the
shape (and size) of the alarm.
4. If necessary, press the ALARM menu key ( ) to access ALARM 2 or ALARM

3, and then change the shape and position by repeating steps 1 through 3.
5.4.3 SWEEP alarm

The sweep alarm’s position can be adjusted vertically and horizontally, but only if the
sweep function is enabled.
NOTE
The following procedure assumes that ALARM 1 is being used as the sweep alarm.

To adjust the position for the sweep alarm

1. Press the A key, and then use the knob to select the alarm polarity. After the
polarity is selected, a box is displayed on the screen (see Figure 5-154 on
page 226).
Figure 5-154 Alarm polarity
2. Press the D key to highlight the alarm DWELL time, and then use the knob to
adjust the DWELL time to the desired value (0.0 s to 10.0 s, in 0.2 s intervals).
3. Press the E key and then rotate the knob to the desired alarm HORN value (ON
or OFF).

5. Press the A key to highlight the alarm SHAPE, and then use the knob to select
SWEEP.
6. Press the B and C keys to alter the TOP and BOTTOM alarm levels.
7. If necessary, press the ALARM menu key ( ) to access and adjust ALARM 2
or ALARM 3.
226 Chapter 5
6. NORTEC PC Software
The NORTEC PC software enables you to manipulate stored data, capture screen
images, upgrade the instrument software, create PDFs, issue a command to the
instrument, remotely control the instrument, unlock instrument options, and back up
and restore the instrument settings.
The NORTEC PC software is included on a CD-ROM as a standard accessory with the

NORTEC 600 instrument. This software allows a PC (computer) to communicate with
the NORTEC 600 instrument. The default communication protocol for the
NORTEC 600 is USB 2.0.
6.1 Importing Files
Data files can be imported from the NORTEC 600 instrument into a PC using the
NORTEC PC software’s Import File Wizard. The Wizard automatically opens when
NORTEC PC starts up.
To import files from the NORTEC 600 instrument

1. Click Next to initiate the Wizard’s file importation process (see Figure 6-1 on
page 228).
NORTEC PC Software 227

Figure 6-1 The Import File Wizard dialog box
2. Use the Browse button to choose the folder location where you want to save the
imported files, and then click Next (see Figure 6-2 on page 228).
Figure 6-2 The Import File Wizard folder selection
228 Chapter 6
3. Select the files to import (or, select Select all files to import all files), and then
click Import (see Figure 6-3 on page 229).
The progress of the importation process is displayed in the status bar (see
Figure 6-3 The Import File Wizard file selection
Figure 6-4 The Import File Wizard transfer process start

4. After all files have been transferred, click Finish to exit the Wizard (see Figure 6-5
on page 230)
Figure 6-5 The Import File Wizard transfer process completion
6.2 Capturing a Screen Image Using NORTEC PC
The NORTEC PC software allows you to capture screen images while operating the
NORTEC 600 instrument. For details about screen captures performed without
NORTEC PC, see “Hidden Function — Screen Capture” on page 74.
To capture a screen image using the NORTEC PC software

1. Start the NORTEC PC software.
2. Connect the PC to the instrument using a USB cable.
3. On the Device menu, select Capture Screen (see Figure 6-6 on page 231).
The Capture Screen dialog box opens (see Figure 6-7 on page 231).
230 Chapter 6
Figure 6-6 The NORTEC PC Device menu
4. In the Capture Screen dialog box, click Start Capture (see Figure 6-7 on
page 231).
Figure 6-7 The Capture Screen dialog box
5. When the NORTEC PC has obtained the current instrument screen image,
proceed as follows:

 Copy the image to the PC clipboard.

OR
Save the image to the PC hard drive or other memory device.
6.3 Upgrading the Instrument Software Using NORTEC PC
You are able to upgrade the NORTEC 600 instrument’s software using NORTEC PC.
The software upgrade must first be downloaded via the internet or other means and
then saved to a file location on the PC.
To upgrade the NORTEC 600 instrument software


3. Press the D key to open the ABOUT menu (see Figure 6-8 on page 232).
Figure 6-8 The ABOUT menu
4. Press the C key to select UPGRADE (see Figure 6-9 on page 233).
232 Chapter 6
Figure 6-9 The UPGRADE menu
5. Connect the charger/adaptor to the NORTEC 600.

A message is displayed that indicates whether or not the charger/adaptor is
connected (see Figure 6-10 on page 233 and Figure 6-11 on page 234).
Figure 6-10 The message indicating the charger/adaptor is not connected

Figure 6-11 The message indicating the charger/adaptor is connected
NOTE
The software upgrade will not proceed until the NORTEC 600 charger/adaptor is
connected to the NORTEC 600 instrument.
6. On the NORTEC PC Utilities menu, select Upgrade (see Figure 6-12 on page 234).
The Upgrade Device dialog box opens (see Figure 6-13 on page 235).
Figure 6-12 The Utilities menu
234 Chapter 6
Figure 6-13 The Upgrade Device dialog box
7. Under Bin Selection in the Upgrade Device dialog box, choose the location of the
NORTEC 600 update software, and then select the Application and FPGA check
boxes (see Figure 6-13 on page 235).
8. Click Start to begin the update.
9. When the software update process has been completed, turn off the NORTEC 600
instrument, and then turn it back on again to activate the upgrade.
6.4 Upgrading the Instrument Software without NORTEC PC
If you are using NORTEC 600 software version 1.10 or higher, it is possible to
upgrade the NORTEC 600 software by copying the upgrade files onto the
microSD card. This way, NORTEC PC is not required. An upgrade using the
microSD card is considerably faster than an upgrade using NORTEC PC.
To upgrade the NORTEC 600 software

1. Ensure that your NORTEC 600 instrument is turned off.

2. Remove the microSD card from the NORTEC 600, and insert it into the SD card
reader on your computer.
3. Make sure to back up any files stored on the NORTEC 600.
IMPORTANT
Before starting the upgrade, check if your NORTEC 600 instrument storage contains
any files you want to keep, and back them up if necessary. The file storage will be
reset during the upgrading process, and any existing files on your instrument will be
erased.
4. Download the latest software upgrade files from the Olympus website.
The downloaded software upgrade is a ZIP file (.zip) that must be extracted to a
folder on your computer. To do this you can, for example, create a temporary
folder on your desktop.
5. Use your computer file manager or Windows Explorer to copy (CTRL+C) and
paste (CTRL+V) the three software upgrade files onto the microSD card.
The following three files must copied onto your microSD card to enable
successful upgrading:
• Fpgapolar_xxx.bin (where xxx represents the FPGA version)
• Polar_yyy.bin (where yyy represents the FPGA version)
• Upgrade.ini
6. After you have copied all three files onto the microSD card, remove the card from
your computer and insert it into the NORTEC 600.
7. Turn on the NORTEC 600, and connect it to the DC charger.
IMPORTANT
The DC charger must be connected before starting the upgrade. Otherwise, you
cannot perform the upgrade.

9. Press the D key to open the ABOUT menu.
10. Press the C key to select UPGRADE.
Wait for the NORTEC 600 to upgrade.
236 Chapter 6
After completing the upgrade through the microSD card, the NORTEC 600 shuts
down automatically.
11. After the NORTEC 600 instrument has shut down, turn it on again.

13. Press the E key to open the RESET menu.
14. Use the knob to select MASTER RESET.
15. Press the A key to select RUN RESET.
16. Turn off the instrument.
6.5 Creating a PDF
NORTEC PC enables you to export inspection reports to a PC hard drive or memory

device. You can either create an individual PDF file from selected data, or export all
data as a series of PDF files.
If you select the Export All Files As Adobe Acrobat (PDF) option, all stored data on
the NORTEC 600 instrument is automatically selected and used to create individual
PDF files that are saved in a specified location. At the end of this process, the
individual PDF files may be reviewed and printed using Adobe Acrobat or equivalent
software. It is important to choose the destination folder (to which the files are to be
exported) before exporting data in a PDF file.
To create a single PDF file from selected data

 Select the file in the left pane of the NORTEC PC window (see Figure 6-14 on
page 237), and then select Export As > PDF (see Figure 6-15 on page 238)
Figure 6-14 Files in the left pane of the NORTEC PC window

Selection for exporting all files
Selection for exporting a single file
Figure 6-15 The File menu
To export all data using the Export All Files As Adobe Acrobat (PDF) option
 On the NORTEC PC File menu, select Export All Files As Adobe Acrobat (PDF)
[see Figure 6-15 on page 238].
6.6 Issuing Remote Commands to the NORTEC 600 from a PC
You can issue single read, write, or execute commands to the NORTEC 600
instrument using the NORTEC PC software. A complete table of the available remote
commands is included at the end of this section.
To view the full list of commands

 On the Help menu, select Remote Command (see Figure 6-16 on page 238).
The command list opens in a separate window using the PC’s default software for
viewing PDF files.
Figure 6-16 Selecting the Remote Command
238 Chapter 6
To issue remote commands

1. On the Device menu, select Issue Command (see Figure 6-17 on page 239).
The Issue Command dialog box opens (see Figure 6-18 on page 239).
Figure 6-17 The Device menu — Issue Command
2. In the Issue Command dialog box, enter a command (see Figure 6-18 on
page 239).
Figure 6-18 The Issue Command dialog box

NOTE
Commands may be read (R), written (W) or executed (X). Table 5 on page 240 lists the
commands and the format in which they must be written.
3. In the Issue Command dialog box, click Send (see Figure 6-18 on page 239).
OR
Press Enter on your PC keyboard.
The NORTEC 600 remote command convention is as follows:
• Read (R) commands end with “?”

Example: AN1?
• Write (W) commands include “=” followed immediately by a value without
any spaces
Example: AN1=45
• Execute (X) commands include only the command
Example: DLB
NOTE
All commands end with a carriage return and line feed (entered as “\r\n”). Any
space in a Write command should be replaced with an underscore character.
Table 5 NORTEC 600 remote commands
Range/valid strings
Command Description R/W/X
Min Max
ADW Alarm Dwell R/W 0.005 10.000
AN1 Angle 1 R/W 0.000 359.900
AN2 Angle 2 R/W 0.000 359.900
ANI Angle Step Increment R/W 0.100
ASE Sweep Erase R/W ON/OFF
AST Auto Sweep Time R/W 0.005 10.000
240 Chapter 6
Table 5 NORTEC 600 remote commands (continued)
Range/valid strings
Min Max
AS1 Alarm Type 1 R BOX/SWEEP/SECTOR/POLAR
AUE Auto Erase After Null R/W ON/OFF
BAT Predicted Batt Capacity R 0 100
BATT Predicted Batt Capacity R 0 100
BMP Screenshot X
CAE Conductivity Alarm R/W OFF/POSITIVE/NEGATIVE

Polarity
CAL Conductivity Alarm R/W 1.0 (U.S. 109.9 (U.S.

Lower units); 0.6 units); 63.8
(Metric units) (Metric units)
CAU Conductivity Alarm R/W 1.1 (U.S. 110.0 (U.S.

Upper units); 0.6 units); 63.8
CCM Capture Mode R/W REPRESS/CONT
CCP Calibration Point R/W 0 4
CCT Capture Time R/W 2.5 120.0
CCV Calibration Value R 0.9 (U.S. 110.0 (U.S.

units); 0.52 units); 63.8
CLD Datalogger Clear X N/A N/A
CLP Datalogger Clear X N/A N/A
CND Conductivity R N/A N/A
CNL Set Continuous Null R/W OFF/0.2Hz/0.5Hz/1.0Hz
CNU Conductivity Units R/W %IACS/MS/m

Range/valid strings
Min Max
CSH LCD Color Section R DEFAULT/OUTDOORS/

RED/YELLOW/BLUE/
PINK/OUTDOORS 2/OFFICE
CTE Display Erase Time R/W 0.0 60.0
DAL Data Location R/W 1 # Entries in

Datalogger
DAN Data Name R/W Valid name in Datalogger
DAS Up/Download Data R N/A N/A

Only
DAT Clock Date R MM/DD/YYYY or

DD/MM/YYYY (depending on
system setup)
DAY Day R/W 1 31
DCM Capture Mode R/W INSTANT/DELAYED
DEF Data Status – Block R N/A N/A
DLB Datalogger Backup X N/A N/A
DLR Datalogger Restore X N/A N/A
DSC Powerlink Probe R Probe Description String

Description
ERS Screen Erase X N/A N/A
FILEREADXML?\2 Read File in XML R N/A N/A

Format From Gage
FILEWRITEXML=2 Write XML File to Gage W N/A N/A
FHI Frequency High Pass R/W 0.0 500.0
FLO Frequency Low Pass R/W 10.0 2500.0
FR1 Frequency 1 R/W 10 12000000
FR2 Frequency 2 R/W 10 12000000
242 Chapter 6
Range/valid strings
Min Max
FRZ Screen Freeze X N/A N/A
FSD Frequency Mode R/W SINGLE/DUAL
GN1 Frequency Gain 1 R/W 0.0 100.0
GN2 Frequency Gain 2 R/W 0.0 100.0
GAGECONFIGDATE Gage Shipment Date R MM/DD/YYYY
GAGEINITDATE Gage Initial Power Up R MM/DD/YYYY

Date
HG1 Freq 1 Hor Gain R/W 0.0 100.0
HG2 Freq 2 Hor Gain R/W 0.0 100.0
HPO Horizontal Position R/W −16 116
HR. Hours R 0 23
HRN Alarm Horn Volume R/W ON/OFF
HWV Hardware Version R DxDDD where D is 0–9
HW? Hardware Version R DxDDDD where D is 0–9
ISN Instrument Serial R N/A N/A

Number
KEY Key Command W MAIN/DISPLAY/ALARM/

MEMORY/SETUP/NUL/
ERASE/SAVE/FREEZE/ AUTO-
LIFT/REF/GAIN/ANGLE/
ENTER/ESCAPE/NEXT/
FULL_NEXT/ A/B/C/D/E
KNOB Knob Command W CCW/CW/UP/DOWN

Range/valid strings
Min Max
LAN Language R/W GERMAN/JAPANESE/

CHINESE/ RUSSIAN/
SWEDISH/ ITALIAN/
PORTUGUESE/NORWEGIAN
/HUNGARIAN/POLISH/
DUTCH/ CZECH
LDN Last Filled Data Loc R Max number of files
LID Load Instrument Default X N/A N/A

Settings
LPN Last Filled Data Loc R Max number of files
LNS Powerlink Status R N/A N/A
MIN Minutes R/W 0 59
MGN Horizontal Mixer Gain R/W −6.0 18.0
MON Month R/W 1 12
MPC Powerlink Probe Class R String describing class
MPD Powerlink Probe Mode R String describing mode
MPS Powerlink Probe S/N # R String of Serial Number
NAM Instrument Name R N600/N600S/N600C/N600D
OPTIONSKEY Set Options Key W String with Valid Code
PCM Radix Point R/W PERIOD (.)/COMMA (,)
PDR Probe Drive R/W LOW/MEDIUM/HIGH
PEF Program Status R N/A N/A
PGL Program Location R Selected file name
PGM Up/Download Program R/W N/A N/A
PGN Program Name R/W Selected file name
244 Chapter 6
Range/valid strings
Min Max
POX1? FREQ 1 current dot R −13.333 13.333

position from NULL —
horizontal
POX2? FREQ 1 current dot R −13.333 13.333

vertical
POXY1? FREQ 1 current dot R −13.333 13.333

horizontal and vertical
POY1? FREQ 2 current dot R −13.333 13.333

horizontal
POY2? FREQ 2 current dot R −13.333 13.333

vertical
POXY2? FREQ 2 current dot R −13.333 13.333

horizontal and vertical
PRE Pre Amplifier R/W ON/OFF
PTP Powerlink Probe Type R REFLECTION

REFLECTION/ABSOLUTE
REFLECTION/
DIFFERENTIAL BRIDGE/
BRIDGE/ABSOLUTE
REFLECTION/DIFFERENTIAL
POWERUP Total Operation Time R Number
PRINTSCREEN Screenshot R N/A N/A

RDI Instrument Battery R N/A N/A
Current
RDV Instrument Battery R N/A N/A

Voltage

Range/valid strings
Min Max
REF Reference Memory R/W N/A N/A

RLK Lock R ON/OFF
RPM Scanner RPM R/W 600 3000
RUNTIME Total Run Time R N/A N/A

SCZ Scanner Sync Angle R/W 0 359
SEC Seconds R/W 0 59
SNO Gage Serial Number R XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX,

where X is 0–9, A–F
SW? Software Version R N/A

SWP Sweep Mode R/W AUTO Y/AUTO XY/ EXT Y/
EXT XY
TIM Clock Time R XX:XX
UI1 User Info 1 R/W Max 40 Characters – No spaces.

Use “{” character for space.






246 Chapter 6
Range/valid strings
Min Max








VAP Variable Persistence R/W 0.0 10.0
VER Software Version R N/A N/A
VG1 Freq 1 Vert Gain R/W 0.0 100.0
VG2 Freq 2 Vert Gain R/W 0.0 100.0
VMG Vertical Mixer Gain R/W −6.0 18.0
VPO Vertical Position R/W 0 100
VER_PIC PIC Version R
WST Waterfall Start R/W 1 57
WEN Waterfall End R/W 4 60
WCU Waterfall Cursor R/W 0 60
WER Waterfall Erase R/W MANUAL/AUTO

Range/valid strings
Min Max
YR. Year R/W 2013 2100
6.7 Remotely Controlling the NORTEC 600 from a PC
You can use the NORTEC PC Remote Control function to remotely control the
NORTEC 600. This is especially useful when the equipment is being used in hot cell
areas (shielded nuclear radiation containment chambers) or for training purposes.
To enable the NORTEC PC remote control function

1. Click Remote Control in the Device menu (see Figure 6-17 on page 239).
The software’s Remote Command dialog box will display an image of the front
face of the NORTEC 600, including its control buttons and display (see
2. Control the instrument in much the same way as you would if it were in front of
you.
NOTE
To display the instrument screen, you must first click Refresh Screen in the Remote
Command dialog box (see Figure 6-19 on page 249). For simultaneous setting
verification, use the instrument display or an external monitor.
248 Chapter 6
Figure 6-19 The Remote Command dialog box
To use the knob function in remote control operation

 In remote control mode, click the top half of the knob to increase setting values
and click the bottom half of the knob to decrease setting values (see Figure 6-20 on
page 250).

Increase
The knob is separated

into two regions. Decrease
Figure 6-20 The knob functions in remote control operation
6.8 Managing Files on the NORTEC 600 from your PC
You can use the NORTEC PC software’s File Manager to rename, delete, and recall
files that are stored on the NORTEC 600.
To access the File Manager

 On the NORTEC PC software Device menu, select File Manager (see Figure 6-21
on page 250).
The Manage File dialog box appears (see Figure 6-22 on page 251).
Figure 6-21 The File Manager command
250 Chapter 6
Figure 6-22 The Manage File dialog box
The following functions are available in the Manage File dialog box:
• Delete — delete files on the NORTEC 600 instrument.
• Rename — rename files on the NORTEC 600 instrument, which is especially
useful when naming files related to a specific inspection or customer.
• Recall — recall a file on the NORTEC 600 instrument.
• Refresh File List — refresh the file list in the NORTEC PC software.
To delete a file on the NORTEC 600

1. In the Manage File dialog box, choose the file to be deleted, and then click Delete.
The Confirmation dialog box appears, asking you to confirm that you want to
delete the file on the device (see Figure 6-23 on page 252).

Figure 6-23 The Confirmation dialog box for file deletion
2. Click Yes to confirm file deletion, which is permanent; the file cannot be retrieved
later.
OR
Click No to cancel the file deletion.
To rename a file on the NORTEC 600

1. In the Manage File dialog box, choose the file to be renamed, and then click
Rename (see Figure 6-22 on page 251).
The Rename dialog box appears (see Figure 6-24 on page 252).
Figure 6-24 The Rename dialog box
2. In the Rename dialog box, enter the new file name.
252 Chapter 6
By default, the NORTEC 600 includes a military time stamp in the file name in
HH_MM_SS (Hour_Minute_Second) format.
3. Click OK to save the new file name.
To recall a file on the NORTEC 600

1. In the Manage File dialog box, choose the file to be recalled, and then click Recall
The Confirmation dialog box appears, asking you to confirm that you want to
recall the selected file (see Figure 6-25 on page 253).
Figure 6-25 Message asking you to confirm the recall
2. Click Yes to confirm the file recall, which will overwrite all previous settings and
which cannot be undone.
OR
Click No to cancel the file recall.
To refresh the program file list

 In the Manage File dialog box, click Refresh File List (see Figure 6-22 on
page 251).
6.9 Unlocking NORTEC 600 Upgrade Options with your PC
Using NORTEC PC and a licence key purchased from Olympus, you can easily
upgrade the software of your NORTEC 600 model. The Unlock Option function
included in the NORTEC PC software makes it unnecessary to send the instrument to
the factory for an upgrade. For greater flexibility, all NORTEC 600 models have
identical hardware that is capable of full functionality.

To unlock options
1. Connect your PC to the instrument using a USB cable.
2. On the NORTEC PC software Device menu, select Unlock Options (see
The Unlock Options dialog box opens (see Figure 6-27 on page 254).
Figure 6-26 The Unlock Options command
3. In the Unlock Options dialog box, enter the license key, and then click OK.
Figure 6-27 The Unlock Options dialog box
4. Turn off, and then turn on the NORTEC 600.

After cycling the power, the new NORTEC 600 instrument features are unlocked
and ready for use.
254 Chapter 6
6.10 Backing Up the NORTEC 600 Files
The NORTEC PC software enables you to easily back up and clone your NORTEC 600
files. The backup file is stored externally on the microSD memory card of the
NORTEC 600 being backed up.
To back up a NORTEC 600

2. Make sure that a microSD card is inserted into the microSD card of the
microSD card microSD card slot
USB port
Figure 6-28 The microSD card location
3. On the NORTEC PC software Utilities menu, select Backup (see Figure 6-29 on
page 256).
The Backup dialog box appears (see Figure 6-30 on page 256).

Figure 6-29 The Backup command
4. In the Backup dialog box, click Start.
Figure 6-30 The Backup dialog box (start)
5. When the Confirmation dialog box appears (see Figure 6-31 on page 256), click
OK to start the backup process.
Figure 6-31 The Confirmation dialog box to confirm backup start
6. When the backup has been completed, click Close (see Figure 6-32 on page 257).
256 Chapter 6
Figure 6-32 The Backup dialog box (complete)
6.11 Restoring or Cloning the NORTEC 600 Files
The NORTEC PC software enables you to easily restore or clone your NORTEC 600
files using a previously created backup file on the external microSD memory card of
the instrument. This backup file is stored separately from the internal storage of the
instrument so that it can overwrite (replace) the internally stored information if
necessary. The instrument files can also be cloned from the backup file to create an
exact copy, which can then be transferred from one instrument to another.
To restore a NORTEC 600

2. Make sure that a microSD card is inserted in the microSD card slot of the
3. On the NORTEC PC software Utilities menu, select Restore (see Figure 6-33 on
page 257).
The Restore dialog box appears (see Figure 6-34 on page 258).
Figure 6-33 The Restore command
4. In the Restore dialog box, click Start.

Figure 6-34 The Restore dialog box (start)
5. When the Confirmation dialog box appears (see Figure 6-35 on page 258), click
OK to start the restore process.
Figure 6-35 The Confirmation dialog box to confirm the restore start
NOTE
Restoring erases all content of the internal memory and replaces it with the data
contained on the external microSD card.
6. When the restore process has been completed, click Close (see Figure 6-36 on
page 258).
Figure 6-36 The Restore dialog box (complete)
258 Chapter 6
7. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
The NORTEC 600 eddy current flaw detector is an industrial quality electronic
instrument that requires very little maintenance. Most troubleshooting and
maintenance procedures may be performed by the user. However, if problems persist,
contact Olympus for technical assistance.
7.1 Lithium-Ion Battery
Under normal operating conditions, the NORTEC 600 can operate on battery power
for at least 8 hours between charges (for standard operation). As the battery power
depletes, the percentage of remaining battery life is displayed on the battery indicator.
When the battery charge becomes insufficient, the NORTEC 600 automatically turns
off to prevent damage to the battery. Recharge the battery using the charger and
power cord supplied with the unit.
Charging the Battery

The charger/adaptor indicator light (battery charge LED) is red while the battery is
charging, and turns green when the battery is fully charged. The approximate
recharge time is two hours to three hours.
Replacing the Battery

Rechargeable batteries lose their ability to hold a full charge after several hundred
recharges. For more information on installing and replacing the battery, see “Lithium-
Ion Battery” on page 29 and “Alkaline Batteries” on page 30.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting 259

Disposing of Batteries
Batteries must be properly disposed of, in compliance with local regulations (see
“Important Information — Please Read Before Use” on page 5).
7.2 Error Messages
The NORTEC 600 instrument may display error messages or indicate potential
problems. If problems persist, contact Olympus or your local sales and service
representative for technical assistance.
No probe
When a probe is connected to the NORTEC 600 and this message appears, a
failure in the identification circuit for the probe occurred. This problem is
typically caused by a connection failure in the probe cable. Verify that the cable is
connected to both the instrument and the probe, and that the cable is not
damaged. Replace the cable (if a substitute cable is available), turn the instrument
off, and then turn it back on.
Host is off-line
The NORTEC 600 is configured to send data through the USB port, but the
NORTEC 600 fails to receive the correct “ready” (DSR) signal from the external
datalogger. Verify the following:
• External device is powered on.
• External device is set to “serial” or “I/O” mode and is not malfunctioning.
• Appropriate data logging software is running (if the receiving device is a
PC).
• Interface cable is securely fastened at both ends.
• Cable is compatible with the equipment and not damaged.
NOTE
The serial communication parameters MUST match those of the external device.
No data or garbled data received by external datalogger/host

If the NORTEC 600 is configured for serial mode, verify that the Comport
parameters in the communication menu of the NORTEC 600 and external
datalogger agree. Often, an incorrect Baud Rate is the problem.
260 Chapter 7
7.3 Probe Care and Diagnostics
The probe is reliable and durable as long as it is carefully handled:
• Do not drop the probe on hard surfaces.

• Do not hit the probe with any objects.
The user may perform tests from the keypad to aid in localizing a suspected
instrument problem, or simply to check functionality.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting 261

262 Chapter 7
Appendix A: Specifications
This appendix contains the NORTEC 600 instrument specifications.
A.1 General and Environmental Specifications
Table 6 on page 263 provides the general and environmental specifications.
Table 6 General and environmental specifications

Category Parameter Value
Housing Overall dimensions 236 mm × 167 mm × 70 mm
(width × height × (9.3 in. × 6.57 in. × 2.76 in.)
depth)
Weight 1.7 kg (3.75 lb), including lithium-ion battery
Other Factory-installed hand strap and back
instruction label
Specifications 263
Table 6 General and environmental specifications (continued)

Environmental Operating −10 °C to 50 °C (14 °F to 122 °F)
conditions temperature
Storage temperature 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F) [with batteries]
−20 °C to 70 °C (−4 °F to 158 °F) [without
batteries]
IP rating Designed to meet requirements of IP66
Drop tested Method 516.6 Procedure IV, 26 drops, package
for shipment
Shock tested MIL-STD-810F, Method 516.5 Procedure I, 6
cycles each axis, 15G, 11 ms half sine shock
testing
Vibration tested MIL-STD-810F, Method 514.5, Procedure I,
Annex C, Figure 6, general exposure: 1 hour each
axis vibration test
Protective bag Knobless mode is used to calibrate signals when
operation unit is placed in protective bag.
Batteries Battery model and 600-BAT-L-3 (Li-ion) [U8051431]
type Single lithium-ion rechargeable battery or AA-
size alkaline batteries (in 8-cell holder)
Battery quantity 1
Battery storage 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F) at 80 % relative
temperature humidity
Battery charge time 4.3 hours when charging inside the instrument
or when using an optional external battery
charger
Battery life Over 10 hours for standard operation and
6 hours to 8 hours when operating rotating
scanners
Battery size Height: 22.3 mm (0.9 in.)
Length: 214.6 mm (8.5 in.)
Width: 58.9 mm (2.4 in.)
264 Appendix A

External DC DC-IN voltage 24 VDC (60 W)
supply DC connector Circular, 2.5 mm pin diameter, center-positive
DC supply, external EP-MCA-X (X indicates the power cord model;
(suggested see Table 12 on page 272)
charger/adaptor
model)
Display Display size 117.4 mm × 88.7 mm, 146.3 mm
(W × H, diagonal) (4.62 in. × 3.49 in., 5.76 in.)
Display resolution 640 × 480 pixels
Number of colors 256 colors
Display type Full VGA, color transflective LCD (liquid crystal
display)
Display viewing Horizontal: −80° to 80°
angles Vertical: −80° to 80°
Screen modes Normal or Full screen
Grid and display tools Choice of 5 grids (OFF, 10 × 10, FINE, COARSE,
and WEB) and user-selected crosshairs on single
and dual impedance plane views only
Display modes (all Available display modes depend on instrument
possible) model and selected operating mode. Available
displays are:
Single impedance plane (IMP)
Sweep display (SWEEP)
Combined impedance and sweep display
(SWP+IMP)
Dual impedance plane (DUAL IMP)
All-in-one display (ALL-IN-1) featuring up to
three configurable traces
Waterfall display for rotating scanner
(WATERFALL)
Input and USB One USB 2.0 peripheral port
Outputs Video output One standard VGA analog output port
Input/Output One 15-pin I/O port (male) with 6 analog
outputs, 4 alarm outputs (which can become
inputs), and 2 encoder signals (future expansion)
Specifications 265

Eddy current Probe types Absolute and differential, in either bridge or
specifications reflection configuration. The instrument is fully
compatible with NORTEC PowerLink probes, as
well as other main probe and accessory
suppliers.
Probe connectors 16-pin LEMO and BNC
Balancing Internal automatic balancing for BNC connector
(absolute probes)
Number of probe 1
inputs
Frequency range 10 Hz to 12 MHz
Gain 0 dB to 100 dB in 0.1 dB or 1 dB increments
Rotation 0° to 359.9° in 0.1° or 1° increments
Sweep Variable from 0.005 s to 10 s per division (total of
13.3 divisions with FINE grid)
Low Pass filter 10 Hz to 2000 Hz and wide band
High Pass filter Off or 2 Hz to 1000 Hz, user-selectable in
constant Figure 6 or Figure 8 filter type
Continuous null (very 0.2 Hz, 0.5 Hz, and 1.0 Hz
low frequency high-
pass filter)
Probe drive LOW, MEDIUM and HIGH (2 volts, 5 volts, and
8 volts)
Automatic Lift-Off Yes
Variable persistence 0.1 s to 10 s
Variable display erase 0.1 s to 60 s
Display modes Single Impedance, Sweep (strip chart), and Split
Screen.
266 Appendix A

Conductivity Frequency 60 kHz or 480 kHz
(NORTEC 600C, Digital conductivity Digital conductivity display from 0.9 % to 110 %
NORTEC 600S specification IACS or 0.5 MS/m to 64 MS/m. Accuracy within
and ± 0.5 % IACS from 0.9 % to 62 % IACS and
NORTEC 600D) within ± 1.0 % of values over 62 %. Meets or
exceeds BAC 5651 specifications. Accuracies
depend on probe frequency, range of calibration,
and coating thickness.
Non-conductive Nominal accuracy of nonconductive coating
coating thickness thickness of ± 0.025 mm (± 0.001 in.) from 0 mm
to 0.254 mm (0.00 in. to 0.010 in.) range, and ±
0.50 mm over 10 mm to 0.5 mm (0.01 in. to
0.020 in.) range. Accuracies depend on
conductivity range, probe frequency, and range
of calibration.
Interface Easy to follow conductivity Wizard with
adjustment of reference points and coating
thickness (shims).
Scanners Scanner compatibility Operates Olympus scanners (Mini-Mite,
(NORTEC 600S SpitFire, RA-2000, and PS-5) and other major
and suppliers’ scanners.
NORTEC 600D) Scanner speed range 120 rpm to 3000 rpm
Display modes Single Impedance, Sweep (strip chart), Split
Screen, and Waterfall.
Waterfall display 60 sweeps per hole
Dual Frequency Frequency adjustment Fully independent frequencies, operating in
(NORTEC 600D) (dual frequency mode) simultaneous injection
Number of channels 3 (frequency 1, frequency 2, and mix
[NORTEC 600D only])
Display modes New all-in-one display, Dual Impedance, Single
Impedance, Sweep (strip chart), and Split Screen
(sweep + impedance).
MIX options F1 – F2, F1 + F2, and automatic true mixing
Specifications 267

Alarms Alarm quantity 3 simultaneous alarms
Available alarm types Choice of BOX (rectangle), POLAR (circle),
SECTOR (pie), SWEEP (time-based),
CONDUCTIVITY, and COATING
THICKNESS
Connectivity and PC software NORTEC PC software, included in base
memory NORTEC 600 kit. NORTEC PC allows viewing
of saved files and printing of reports.
On-board preview Yes — selectable with knob
Data storage 500 files featuring on-board preview
Reference signal Instant or recalled from memory
Interface Languages English, Spanish, French, German, Italian,
Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Portuguese, Polish,
Dutch, Korean, Czech, Hungarian, Swedish, and
Norwegian
Ambidextrous mode Switch to ambidextrous mode to place the most
commonly-used controls at the right side of the
instrument.
Supervisor mode Password-protected supervisor mode to lock
instrument menus and keys.
Instrument modes Single frequency, dual frequency, or conductivity
Menu structure Single menu-level interface with All Settings
form for easy configuration from a procedure
Applications Application selection menu for easy and rapid
configuration
Real-time readings Choice of up to 2 real-time readings to measure
signal characteristics (selection of 5 amplitude
measurements and 2 angle measurements)
Colors 8 schemes to accommodate all lighting
conditions and user preferences
A.2 Input/Output Specifications
The specifications for the USB, video output, and input/output signals are provided in
Table 6 on page 263.
268 Appendix A
Table 7 on page 269 describes all the connections available on the 15-pin I/O
connector. Table 8 on page 270 describes all the connections available on the VGA
OUT 15-pin connector. Connector-pin numbering is shown in Figure A-1 on page 269.
Figure A-1 Pin numbers on connectors
Table 7 NORTEC 600 Input/Output 15-pin I/O connector

Pin Signal Description
1 AOUT_1 Analog Output 1 (−5 V to +5 V)
Meaning: F1 X
Meaning: F1 Y
Meaning: F2 X
Meaning: F2 Y
Meaning: Mix X
Meaning: Mix Y
7 GND Ground
8 VDD +5 V voltage
9 ENCD_INT Encoder Interrupt (future expansion)
10 ENCD_DIR Encoder Direction (future expansion)
11 GND Ground
12 HW_IO_1 Hardware I/O 1: Alarm Output 1, Generic Input 1
Specifications 269
Table 7 NORTEC 600 Input/Output 15-pin I/O connector (continued)

15 Unused Unused (for future expansion)
Table 8 NORTEC 600 VGA 15-pin port outputa

1 VGA_RED VGA red output
2 VGA_GREEN VGA green output
3 VGA_BLUE VGA blue output
4 NC Not connected
5 GND Ground
6 GND Ground
7 GND Ground
8 GND Ground
9 NC Not connected
10 GND Ground
11 NC Not connected
12 NC Not connected
13 LCD_HSYNC Horizontal sync.
14 LCD_VSYNC Vertical sync.
15 NC Not connected
a. Standard VGA output configuration
270 Appendix A
Appendix B: Accessories, Replacement Parts, and

Upgrades
Table 9 on page 271 through Table 15 on page 273 contain part numbers for
NORTEC 600 accessories, replacement parts and upgrades.
Table 9 Standard accessories and replacement parts

Description Part number
600 Series instrument transport case 600-TC [U8780294]
Charger/adaptor (DC supply) with configured EP-MCA-X (for cable variable X
power cord and item number see Table 12 on
page 272)
NORTEC PC software and N600 full manuals N600-CD [U8030151]
CD (all languages)
ISO-15548 certificate of calibration 7922035 [U8030145]
600 Series rechargeable Li-ion battery (67 Wh) 600-BAT-L-3 [U8051431]
8-cell battery holder (tray) with connector plug 600-BAT-AA [U8780295]
USB communication cable EPLTC-C-USB-A-6 [U8840031]
2 GB microSD memory card MICROSD-ADP-2GB [U8779307]
Probe cable, 1.83 m (6 ft) length, PowerLink 9122083 [U8800073]
bridge/reflection cable (CL/SC/6)
Hand strap (factory installed on left side of 38DLP-HS [U8779371]
NORTEC 600)
Accessories, Replacement Parts, and Upgrades 271

Table 10 Optional accessories and support items

Chest harness (4-point connection) EP4/CH [U8140055]
600 Series instrument stand assembly 600-STAND [U8780296]
N600 external alarm booster adaptor N600-EXTALM [U8780332]
600 Series VGA output cable, 1.52 m (5 ft) length 600-C-VGA-5 [U8780298]
Communication cable HD15, female, single ended, DSUB-HD15-6 [U8780333]
1.83 m (6 ft) length
600 Series products display protectors (pack of 10) 600-DP [U8780297]
600 Series soft instrument and accessory case 600-SC-K [U8780334]
(knob version)
External battery charger with configured power cord EPXT-EC-X (for cable variable X
and item number see Table 12 on
page 272)
Shoulder strap 3319871 [U8906253]
Table 11 NORTEC 600 instrument upgrades

NORTEC 600 Extended Warranty W2-NORTEC600 [U8832002]
(one additional year) including calibration
N600 to N600C upgrade, including one probe and standard N600-UPG-C [U8832003]
N600 to N600C upgrade, software only N600-UPG-C-SW [U8832047]
N600 to N600S upgrade N600-UPG-S [U8832004]
N600 to N600D upgrade N600-UPG-D [U8832005]
N600C to N600S upgrade N600-UPG-C-S [U8832006]
N600C to N600D upgrade N600-UPG-C-D [U8832007]
N600S to N600D upgrade N600-UPG-S-D [U8832008]
Table 12 Power cords for charger EP-MCA-X and EPXT-EC-X

Description for charger-cord variable (X) Item number
A = Australia U8840005
B = Brazil U8769007
272 Appendix B
Table 12 Power cords for charger EP-MCA-X and EPXT-EC-X (continued)

Description for charger-cord variable (X) Item number
C = China U8769008
D = Denmark U8840011
E = Europe U8840003
I = Italy U8840009
J = Japan Power Cord and PSE Insertion Sheet U8908649
K = U.K. U8840007
P = India, Pakistan, S. Africa, and Hong-Kong U8840013
S = South Korea U8769009
U = U.S.A and Canada U8840015
Table 13 Conductivity accessories (for N600C model only)

60 kHz conductivity probe, 19 mm (0.750 in.) 9222340 [U8690027]
diameter
Traceable conductivity standards with 9522111 [U8880084]
certificates. Set of two standards: 29 % to
59 %
0.1 mm (0.004 in.) thick nonconductive shim 320806 [U8840160]
Conductivity probe, shim and standard kit N600-UPG-C-HW [U8250224]
Table 14 Adaptor cables for scanners from other manufacturers

Adaptor cable for GE minidrive rotating 9122360 [U8800878]
scanner into NORTEC 600
Adaptor cable for Rohmann MR3 rotating 9122234 [U8800090]
scanner into NORTEC 600
Table 15 Getting Started Guide — all languages

N600 Getting Started - Chinese DMTA-10039-01ZH [U8778671]
Accessories, Replacement Parts, and Upgrades 273

Table 15 Getting Started Guide — all languages (continued)

N600 Getting Started - German DMTA-10039-01DE [U8778672]
N600 Getting Started - English DMTA-10039-01EN [U8030146]
N600 Getting Started - French DMTA-10039-01FR [U8778673]
N600 Getting Started - Italian DMTA-10039-01IT [U8778674]
N600 Getting Started - Japanese DMTA-10039-01JA [U8778675]
N600 Getting Started - Russian DMTA-10039-01RU [U8778676]
N600 Getting Started - Spanish DMTA-10039-01ES [U8778677]
N600 Getting Started - Portuguese DMTA-10039-01PT [U8778678]
274 Appendix B
List of Figures
Figure i-1 Label attached to the back of the instrument .................................................. 1

Figure i-2 Location of the serial number ............................................................................ 2
Figure i-3 The NORTEC 600 instrument .......................................................................... 17
Figure 1-1 Transport case contents ..................................................................................... 21
Figure 1-2 The NORTEC 600 connections ......................................................................... 22
Figure 1-3 The top end connectors ..................................................................................... 22
Figure 1-4 The connectors behind the input/output (I/O) door ..................................... 23
Figure 1-5 The VGA OUT and I/O connectors ................................................................. 24
Figure 1-6 Location of the NORTEC 600 power button and indicator light ................ 25
Figure 1-7 The charger/adaptor indicator light on the front panel ............................... 25
Figure 1-8 Connecting the charger/adaptor ...................................................................... 26
Figure 1-9 Connecting the DC power cable ...................................................................... 27
Figure 1-10 The battery compartment ................................................................................. 28
Figure 1-11 Removing the lithium-ion battery ................................................................... 30
Figure 1-12 The alkaline battery holder .............................................................................. 31
Figure 1-13 Installing the microSD card .............................................................................. 32
Figure 1-14 Overview of the NORTEC 600 hardware — Front view ............................. 33
Figure 1-15 Overview of the NORTEC 600 hardware — Back view .............................. 34
Figure 1-16 The NORTEC 600 front panel with SmartKnob and keypad ...................... 35
Figure 1-17 The NORTEC 600 English keypad .................................................................. 36
Figure 1-18 The NORTEC 600 Chinese keypad ................................................................. 36
Figure 1-19 The NORTEC 600 Japanese keypad ................................................................ 37
Figure 1-20 The NORTEC 600 international keypad ......................................................... 37
Figure 1-21 Location of the PROBE (LEMO) and BNC connectors ................................. 40
Figure 1-22 The VGA OUT and I/O connectors ................................................................. 41
Figure 1-23 The microSD slot and USB port ....................................................................... 42
Figure 1-24 Instrument stand ................................................................................................ 43
Figure 2-1 The instrument label showing keypad functions ......................................... 47
Figure 2-2 Application choices on the quick-setup menu .............................................. 48
Figure 2-3 The PowerLink recognition screen .................................................................. 49
List of Figures 275

Figure 2-4 The main inspection screen .............................................................................. 50

Figure 2-5 The NORTEC 600 front panel and main inspection screen ......................... 51
Figure 2-6 The ALL SETTINGS menu ............................................................................... 53
Figure 2-7 Example of VPP and DEG PP .......................................................................... 55
Figure 2-8 Example of HPP ................................................................................................. 55
Figure 2-9 Example of VPP .................................................................................................. 56
Figure 2-10 Example of HMAX ............................................................................................ 56
Figure 2-11 Example of VMAX ............................................................................................. 57
Figure 3-1 The SYSTEM SETUP screen ............................................................................. 59
Figure 4-1 The PowerLink recognition screen .................................................................. 65
Figure 4-2 The NORTEC 600 instrument controls ........................................................... 66
Figure 4-3 Probe liftoff—initially not horizontal ............................................................. 69
Figure 4-4 The LIFT PROBE message after holding the A-LIFT NULL key ................ 69
Figure 4-5 Probe liftoff after nulling .................................................................................. 70
Figure 4-6 Freezing the current image on the instrument screen .................................. 71
Figure 4-7 The UP and DOWN function in knobless entry ............................................ 74
Figure 4-8 The SYSTEM SETUP screen ............................................................................. 76
Figure 4-9 The controls displayed on the right side of the instrument ........................ 76
Figure 4-10 The settings display (left) and maximized display (right) ............................ 77
Figure 4-11 Using the FULL NEXT key to navigate a menu ............................................ 77
Figure 4-12 The EDDY CURRENT SLIDE RULE menu ................................................... 82
Figure 4-13 The SHOW READINGS function .................................................................... 88
Figure 4-14 The HIDE READINGS function ...................................................................... 89
Figure 4-15 The STORE function .......................................................................................... 91
Figure 4-16 The FILE MANAGER menu’s memory text editor and special buttons .... 93
Figure 4-17 The application selection menu ....................................................................... 95
Figure 4-18 The ALL SETTINGS menu (first of two screens) .......................................... 96
Figure 4-19 The FREQ 1 menu .............................................................................................. 98
Figure 4-20 The FREQ 2 menu .............................................................................................. 98
Figure 4-21 The PASSWORD menu ..................................................................................... 99
Figure 4-22 The SYSTEM SETUP screen ........................................................................... 100
Figure 4-23 The ABOUT menu ........................................................................................... 101
Figure 4-24 The REGULATORY SCREEN ........................................................................ 102
Figure 4-25 The RESET menu ............................................................................................. 104
Figure 5-1 Materials—surface-breaking cracks .............................................................. 116
Figure 5-2 The Surface Cracks application ..................................................................... 117
Figure 5-3 The automatic lift-off function ....................................................................... 119
Figure 5-4 The lift-off signal as close as possible to horizontal .................................... 119
Figure 5-5 Adjusting the horizontal gain ........................................................................ 120
Figure 5-6 Adjusting the vertical gain ............................................................................. 120
Figure 5-7 The final calibration check .............................................................................. 121
Figure 5-8 The full-screen mode for fine-tuning the settings ....................................... 122
276 List of Figures

Figure 5-9 The list of all parameters ................................................................................ 122

Figure 5-10 Materials—fastener holes with rotating scanner ........................................ 123
Figure 5-11 The Bolt Hole application ............................................................................... 124
Figure 5-12 The bolt-hole signal ......................................................................................... 125
Figure 5-13 Adjusting the lift-off noise (first alternative) ............................................... 125
Figure 5-14 Adjusting the lift-off noise (second alternative) .......................................... 126
Figure 5-15 Adjusting the gain ........................................................................................... 127
Figure 5-17 The full-screen mode for fine-tuning the settings ....................................... 128
Figure 5-18 The list of all parameters for aluminum ....................................................... 129
Figure 5-19 An example display for a steel hole .............................................................. 130
Figure 5-20 The list of all parameters in ferromagnetic material .................................. 130
Figure 5-21 Comparing the Figure 6 (left) and Figure 8 filter signals ........................... 131
Figure 5-22 Materials—sub-surface cracks at very low frequency ............................... 132
Figure 5-23 The Sub-Surface application .......................................................................... 133
Figure 5-24 The signal on the cracked fastener ................................................................ 134
Figure 5-25 The lower lift-off signal as close as possible to horizontal ........................ 134
Figure 5-27 The signal in full-screen mode ....................................................................... 135
Figure 5-29 Calibration with frequency too low (left) or too high (right) ..................... 137
Figure 5-30 Materials—welds on ferromagnetic material .............................................. 137
Figure 5-31 The Weld and Wheel application .................................................................. 138
Figure 5-32 The longest face of the probe tip ................................................................... 139
Figure 5-33 The signal on the notch ................................................................................... 139
Figure 5-34 The notch signal oriented vertically .............................................................. 140
Figure 5-36 The signal after scanning the entire standard ............................................. 141
Figure 5-37 The default display of maximum signal amplitude and signal angle ..... 142
Figure 5-39 Materials—paint thickness on ferromagnetic material .............................. 143
Figure 5-41 Decreasing the GAIN to adjust the signal .................................................... 145
Figure 5-42 Adjusting V POS to create a vertical mark .................................................. 146
Figure 5-43 The vertical lines for different thicknesses ................................................... 146
Figure 5-44 Using the vertical reference marks for thickness evaluation .................... 147
Figure 5-46 Materials—conductivity and non-conductive coating thickness ............. 149
Figure 5-47 Accessing the Conductivity function ............................................................ 150
Figure 5-48 The displayed instruction (1) after PowerLink acceptance ....................... 150
Figure 5-49 The displayed instruction (3) ......................................................................... 151
Figure 5-50 The displayed instruction (4) ......................................................................... 152
List of Figures 277

Figure 5-51 The confirmation of a completed calibration ............................................... 152

Figure 5-52 Materials—aircraft wheels .............................................................................. 155
Figure 5-53 The Weld and Wheel application .................................................................. 156
Figure 5-54 The signals extending across the screen ....................................................... 157
Figure 5-55 Scanning the center notch ............................................................................... 157
Figure 5-56 Setting the signal as close as possible to horizontal .................................... 158
Figure 5-57 The signals extending vertically across the screen ..................................... 158
Figure 5-58 The results after scanning the standard ....................................................... 159
Figure 5-59 The signal after fine tuning ............................................................................ 160
Figure 5-61 The Indexing Scanner application ................................................................. 161
Figure 5-62 The Figure 6 filter ............................................................................................. 162
Figure 5-63 Adjusting the signal angle .............................................................................. 163
Figure 5-66 Adjusting the sync angle ................................................................................ 164
Figure 5-67 Using the waterfall cursor .............................................................................. 166
Figure 5-68 The scan result .................................................................................................. 166
Figure 5-70 Materials—special and educational applications ....................................... 168
Figure 5-72 The section of the standard used for impedance plane theory ................. 170
Figure 5-73 Adjusting the signal angle to 90° ................................................................... 170
Figure 5-75 Displaying the effect of conductivity and magnetic permeability ........... 171
Figure 5-77 The section of the standard used for conductivity evaluation .................. 173
Figure 5-78 The signals from different conductivity samples ........................................ 173
Figure 5-79 Adjusting the lower signal to horizontal ...................................................... 174
Figure 5-81 Using the vertical position of the signal to accept or reject the sample ... 175
Figure 5-83 The back of the standard ................................................................................. 176
Figure 5-84 Adjusting the lift-off angle to 90° .................................................................. 177
Figure 5-86 Using H POS to create a horizontal mark .................................................... 178
Figure 5-87 Creating more horizontal marks ................................................................... 178
Figure 5-88 Using the vertical signal deflection to evaluate unknown thicknesses ... 179
Figure 5-90 The section of the standard used for metal thickness ................................ 180
Figure 5-91 The scan of the tapered area ........................................................................... 181
Figure 5-92 Adjusting the lift-off angle to horizontal ...................................................... 182
278 List of Figures


Figure 5-94 The scan of the tapered part ........................................................................... 183
Figure 5-95 Materials—dual frequency for corrosion ..................................................... 184
Figure 5-96 The Dual Frequency Sub-Surface application ............................................. 185
Figure 5-97 The list of dual frequency parameters .......................................................... 186
Figure 5-98 Position 1 of the standard ............................................................................... 187
Figure 5-99 Adjusting the angle of the frequency 1 lift-off signal ................................. 187
Figure 5-100 Adjusting the angle of the frequency 2 lift-off signal ................................. 188
Figure 5-101 Position 2 on the standard .............................................................................. 188
Figure 5-102 The frozen signals ............................................................................................ 189
Figure 5-103 Adjusting the gain for frequency 1 ............................................................... 189
Figure 5-104 Adjusting the gain for frequency 2 ............................................................... 190
Figure 5-105 Adjusting the H GAIN for frequency 1 ........................................................ 191
Figure 5-106 Adjusting the H GAIN 2 value ...................................................................... 191
Figure 5-107 Adjusting the H GAIN value ......................................................................... 192
Figure 5-108 Adjusting the H MIX GN value ..................................................................... 193
Figure 5-109 Adjusting the V MIX GN value ..................................................................... 193
Figure 5-110 The corrosion-defect scan result .................................................................... 194
Figure 5-112 Materials—dual frequency for sub-surface cracks ..................................... 196
Figure 5-113 The Dual Frequency Sub-Surface application ............................................. 197
Figure 5-114 The list of dual frequency parameters .......................................................... 198
Figure 5-116 Adjusting the ANGLE value .......................................................................... 199
Figure 5-117 Adjusting the ANGLE 2 value ....................................................................... 200
Figure 5-118 Adjusting the amplitude of the frequency 1 signal .................................... 200
Figure 5-119 Adjusting the amplitude of the frequency 2 signal .................................... 201
Figure 5-120 The fastener scan result .................................................................................. 202
Figure 5-121 Adjusting the horizontal amplitude of the frequency 1 signal ................. 202
Figure 5-122 Adjusting the vertical amplitude of the frequency 1 signal ...................... 203
Figure 5-123 Adjusting the horizontal amplitude of the frequency 2 signal ................. 203
Figure 5-124 Adjusting the vertical amplitude of the frequency 2 signal ...................... 204
Figure 5-126 Adjusting the V GAIN 2 value ....................................................................... 205
Figure 5-127 Adjusting the V GAIN value .......................................................................... 206
Figure 5-128 Checking the Mix signal ................................................................................. 206
Figure 5-129 Adjusting the ANGLE value .......................................................................... 207
Figure 5-130 Adjusting the H GAIN 2 value ...................................................................... 207
Figure 5-131 The scan results for both fastener rows ........................................................ 208
Figure 5-133 Materials—dual frequency for heat exchanger tubing .............................. 210
Figure 5-134 The Heat Exchanger Tubing application ...................................................... 211
List of Figures 279

Figure 5-135 The scan of the thru-wall hole ........................................................................ 212

Figure 5-136 Adjusting the frequency 1 signal phase ....................................................... 213
Figure 5-137 Adjusting the frequency 1 gain ...................................................................... 213
Figure 5-138 Adjusting the frequency 2 angle .................................................................... 214
Figure 5-139 The scan of the support ring .......................................................................... 214
Figure 5-140 Adjusting the angle of the frequency 2 signal on the support ring .......... 215
Figure 5-141 Adjusting the gain of the frequency 2 signal on the support ring ............ 215
Figure 5-142 The support ring scan with AUTO MIX ....................................................... 216
Figure 5-143 The support ring’s signal successfully subtracted ...................................... 217
Figure 5-144 The scan of the thru-wall hole ........................................................................ 217
Figure 5-145 Fine-tuning the MIX angle .............................................................................. 218
Figure 5-146 The scan of the flat-bottom holes ................................................................... 218
Figure 5-148 The strip chart display .................................................................................... 220
Figure 5-149 The web grid display ....................................................................................... 221
Figure 5-150 The display with adjusted null point and coarse grid ............................... 222
Figure 5-151 Alarm DEFINE menu ...................................................................................... 223
Figure 5-152 Alarm polarity .................................................................................................. 224
Figure 5-153 Alarm menu ...................................................................................................... 225
Figure 5-154 Alarm polarity .................................................................................................. 226
Figure 6-1 The Import File Wizard dialog box ............................................................... 228
Figure 6-2 The Import File Wizard folder selection ....................................................... 228
Figure 6-3 The Import File Wizard file selection ............................................................ 229
Figure 6-4 The Import File Wizard transfer process start ............................................. 229
Figure 6-5 The Import File Wizard transfer process completion ................................. 230
Figure 6-6 The NORTEC PC Device menu ..................................................................... 231
Figure 6-7 The Capture Screen dialog box ...................................................................... 231
Figure 6-8 The ABOUT menu ........................................................................................... 232
Figure 6-9 The UPGRADE menu ..................................................................................... 233
Figure 6-10 The message indicating the charger/adaptor is not connected ................. 233
Figure 6-11 The message indicating the charger/adaptor is connected ........................ 234
Figure 6-12 The Utilities menu ........................................................................................... 234
Figure 6-13 The Upgrade Device dialog box .................................................................... 235
Figure 6-14 Files in the left pane of the NORTEC PC window ...................................... 237
Figure 6-15 The File menu ................................................................................................... 238
Figure 6-16 Selecting the Remote Command ................................................................... 238
Figure 6-17 The Device menu — Issue Command .......................................................... 239
Figure 6-18 The Issue Command dialog box .................................................................... 239
Figure 6-19 The Remote Command dialog box ................................................................ 249
Figure 6-20 The knob functions in remote control operation ......................................... 250
Figure 6-21 The File Manager command .......................................................................... 250
Figure 6-22 The Manage File dialog box ........................................................................... 251
280 List of Figures

Figure 6-23 The Confirmation dialog box for file deletion ............................................. 252
Figure 6-24 The Rename dialog box .................................................................................. 252
Figure 6-25 Message asking you to confirm the recall .................................................... 253
Figure 6-26 The Unlock Options command ...................................................................... 254
Figure 6-27 The Unlock Options dialog box ..................................................................... 254
Figure 6-28 The microSD card location ............................................................................. 255
Figure 6-29 The Backup command .................................................................................... 256
Figure 6-30 The Backup dialog box (start) ........................................................................ 256
Figure 6-31 The Confirmation dialog box to confirm backup start ............................... 256
Figure 6-32 The Backup dialog box (complete) ................................................................ 257
Figure 6-33 The Restore command .................................................................................... 257
Figure 6-34 The Restore dialog box (start) ........................................................................ 258
Figure 6-35 The Confirmation dialog box to confirm the restore start ......................... 258
Figure 6-36 The Restore dialog box (complete) ................................................................ 258
Figure A-1 Pin numbers on connectors ............................................................................ 269
List of Figures 281

282 List of Figures

List of Tables
Table 1 Content of the rating label ..................................................................................... 2

Table 2 Charger/adaptor and battery indicators ............................................................ 27
Table 3 Keypad functions .................................................................................................. 38
Table 4 Reset types ............................................................................................................ 104
Table 5 NORTEC 600 remote commands ...................................................................... 240
Table 6 General and environmental specifications ...................................................... 263
Table 7 NORTEC 600 Input/Output 15-pin I/O connector ......................................... 269
Table 8 NORTEC 600 VGA 15-pin port output ............................................................ 270
Table 9 Standard accessories and replacement parts .................................................. 271
Table 10 Optional accessories and support items .......................................................... 272
Table 11 NORTEC 600 instrument upgrades .................................................................. 272
Table 12 Power cords for charger EP-MCA-X and EPXT-EC-X ................................... 272
Table 13 Conductivity accessories (for N600C model only) ......................................... 273
Table 14 Adaptor cables for scanners from other manufacturers ................................ 273
Table 15 Getting Started Guide — all languages ........................................................... 273
List of Tables 283

284 List of Tables

Index
A corrosion 184
absolute measurement 221 heat exchanger tubing 209
AC power cord warning 22, 25 lap splice 195
accessories applications, educational
conductivity (N600C model) 273 impedance plane theory 168
instrument 20 thickness curve 179
replacement parts 271 applications, special
scanner adaptor cables 273 non-conductive coating 175
adaptor cables, scanner 273 sorting metals 171
advanced setup 94 Australia, RCM compliance 3
aircraft wheels 155 auto erase, screen 63
alarm menu 87 B
alarms
backing up files 255
conductivity and coating thickness 153
battery
definition 222
alkaline, installing 30
shape and position 224
charging (optional lithium) 259
sweep 225
compartment
alkaline batteries
connection 28
holder 30
cover 34
installation 30
location 28
angle setting 78
thumb screws 28
APPL SELECT menu 95
vent 34
applications, common
holder, alkaline 30
aircraft wheels 155
precautions 10
conductivity 148
BNC connector 34
critical fastener holes 160
box contents, NORTEC 600 20
fastener holes 122
brightness of display 62
paint thickness 143
buttons, power and lock 67
sub-surface cracks 131
surface-breaking cracks 116 C
welds, ferromagnetic 137 capture, screen 74, 230
applications, dual frequency CAUTION signal word 8
absolute measurement 221 cautions
Index 285
display window damage 44 I/O 23, 24, 34, 40, 41

harsh environment exposure 41, 43 input/output 23, 40
instrument compatibility 6 probe 34, 40
modification prohibited 7 USB 23, 32, 34, 42
rechargeable battery 29 VGA out 23, 24, 34, 40, 41
CE (European Community) 12 contents, box 20
CE marking 3 continuous null (filter) 80
changing control, remote 248
display settings 61 controls
language 59 direct-function keys 67
number radix 59 display 67
charger indicator 25 front panel layout 66
charger/adaptor function keys 66, 77
connection 25 functions, instrument 65
power indicator status 27 menu keys, operation 73
warning 26 power and lock buttons 67
China RoHS 3, 12 SmartKnob 74
clock, setting 60 corrosion detection, dual frequency 184
cloning, file 255 cover, battery compartment 34
coating thickness 148 cracks, sub-surface 131
color 98 cracks, surface breaking 116
commands 238 creating a PDF file 237
communication, USB 227 critical fastener holes 160
compartment curve, thickness 179
battery 34
D
computer connection 42
microSD card slot 42 DANGER signal word 8
USB connector 42 date, setting 60
compatibility, instrument 6 DC power connector 22, 34
compliance decimal symbol 59
EMC directive 13 defining alarms 222
FCC (USA) 13 diagnostics 260
ICES-001 (Canada) 14 direct current symbol 2
RCM (Australia) 3 direct-function keys 67
computer connection compartment 42 display 67
conductivity 148 brightness 62
accessories, N600C model 273 changing settings 61
alarms 153 mode 83
saving measurements 153 protection 44
screen (measurement) 153 window damage, caution note 44
configuration information, instrument 101 disposal, equipment 11
connections 21 door, I/O 23, 34
connectors dual frequency
BNC 34 ALARM menu 114
charger/adaptor 25 display menu 111
DC power 34 filter menu 109
286 Index
FREQ 1 menu 105 I

FREQ 2 menu 107 I/O
MIX menu 109 connector 23, 24, 34, 40, 41
special menu 110 door 23, 34
E ICES-001 (Canada) compliance 14
impedance plane theory 168
educational applications 167
Import File Wizard, Nortec PC 227
electric shock, warning note 23, 40
important information 5
electrical conductivity 148
IMPORTANT signal word 9
EMC directive compliance 13
indicators, power and charger 25
environmental ratings 44
initial setup, instrument 59
environmental specifications 263
input/output
equipment disposal 11
connectors 23, 40
error messages 260
specifications 269
European Community (CE) 12
inspection screen 49
F installing
fastener holes 122 alkaline batteries 30
FCC (USA) compliance 13 Li-ion battery 29
features, hardware 32 microSD card 31
ferromagnetic welds 137 instruction label location 1
file backup 255 instruction manual 5
file importation 227 interface 47
File Manager 250 main inspection screen 49
file restoration 257 menu selection 52
filter setting 80 IP rating 44
frequency mode (N600D model) 97 K
frequency setting 78
keypad 35
front panel
keys
controls 66
configuration on keypad 35
user interface 33, 34
direct function 35, 67
function keys 66, 77
function 66
G menu, operation 73
gain setting 79 power, location 25
gasket 44 knob, setting adjustment (SmartKnob) 34, 74
Getting Started guide 273 knobless setting adjustment 74
Korea Communications Commission (KCC) 13
H
hardware L
features 32, 43 labels 1
overview 33 language, changing 59
heat exchanger tubing 209 lap splice 195
holder, alkaline battery 30 licence, software 253
holes, critical fastener 160 Li-ion battery installation 29
holes, fastener 122 lock button 67
Index 287
M o-ring 44
Manager, File 250 output connector 23, 40
manual, instruction 5 overview
measurement screen, conductivity 153 hardware 33
membrane instrument 19
seals 44 P
vent 28, 34
paint thickness 143
vent symbol 2
password 99
memory 87
PC software 227
menu keys, operation 73
PDF creation 237
menus 78
position, alarm 224
advanced setup 94
power
alarm 87
button (key) 25, 67
all settings 52, 96
indicator 25
angle 78
requirements, instrument 24
application selection 95
status 27
color 98
power cord for charger 272
continuous null (filter) 80
PowerLink probes
display mode 83
characteristics 65
dual frequency 105
menu 49
filter 80
precautions
frequency 78
battery 10
frequency mode (N600D model) 97
safety 9
gain 79
principle of operation 19
memory 87
probe
password 99
care and diagnostics 261
probe connection 81
connection menu 81
probe drive 81
connector 34
RPM, scanner rotational speed 80
drive menu 81
selection 52
PowerLink 65
metal sorting 171
protection, display 44
microSD card
installation 31 Q
slot 23, 32, 42 quick setup 47, 48, 96, 115
modification, instrument 7
R
N ratings, environmental 44
navigating the menu 48 RCM mark 3
non-conductive coating 175 remote control 248
Nortec PC software 227 repair, instrument 7
NOTE signal word 9 reset, instrument 104
number radix 59 restoring files 257
O RoHS symbol 3, 12
RPM, scanner rotational speed 80
Olympus technical support 15
operating principle 19
288 Index
S WARNING 8
safety slot, microSD 23, 32, 42
cautions SmartKnob 34
harsh environment exposure 41 software
rechargeable battery 29 menu navigation 48
instrument compatibility 6 menus 78
misuse of instrument 5 PowerLink menu 49
precautions 9 upgrade using microSD 235
signal words 8 upgrade using NORTEC PC 232
symbols 7 user interface 47
warnings software, PC 227
AC power cord 22, 25 sorting metals 171
charger/adaptor 26 specifications
electric shock 23, 40 general and environmental 263
saving selected values 96 input/output (I/O) 269
scanner adaptor cables 273 power cord for charger 272
scanner compatibility 6 VGA 270
screen auto erase 63 splice, lap 195
screen capture 230 stand, instrument 34, 43
instrument 74 startup
seals, membrane 44 application choices 47
selecting and saving values 96 PowerLink probes 65
selection, menu 52 screen selection 63
serial number status, power indicator 27
format 3 sub-surface cracks 131
location 2 summarized instructions 273
settings 96 support information, technical 15
all settings menu 52 surface-breaking cracks 116
auto erase, screen 63 sweep alarm 225
clock 60 symbols 1
display brightness 62 CE 3
instrument initial setup 59 direct current 2
startup screen 63 Korean standard 3
setup membrane vent 2
advanced 94 RCM (Australia) 3
quick 48, 96, 115 RoHS 3, 12
shape, alarm 224 safety 7
signal words WEEE 2
information notes 9 T
IMPORTANT 9
technical support 15
NOTE 9
thickness curve 179
TIP 9
thickness, paint 143
safety 8
thumb screws, battery compartment cover 28
CAUTION 8
time, setting 60
DANGER 8
TIP signal word 9
Index 289
troubleshooting 260 W
tubing, heat exchanger 209 WARNING signal word 8
U warning symbols
general 7
unlocking an instrument upgrade 100, 253
high voltage 8
upgrade
warnings
list 272
AC power cord 22, 25
unlock 100, 253
charger/adaptor 26
using microSD 235
electric shock 23, 40
using NORTEC PC 232
electrical 10
USB communication 227
general 9
USB connector 23, 32, 42
misuse of instrument 5
use, intended 5
warranty information 14
user interface
waste electrical and electronic equipment 12
front panel 33, 34
WEEE directive 12
language 59
WEEE symbol 2
V welds, ferromagnetic 137
vent, membrane 28, 34 wheels, aircraft 155
VGA out connector 23, 24, 34, 40, 41
VGA specifications 270
290 Index

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Nortec 600 Rev C PDF

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NORTEC 600

Eddy Current Flaw Detector

Copyright © 2014, 2015 by Olympus. All rights reserved. No part of this

The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.

Part number: DMTA-10040-01EN

Printed in the United States of America

The microSD logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC.

List of Abbreviations ....................................................................................... ix

Labels and Symbols ........................................................................................... 1

Important Information — Please Read Before Use ..................................... 5

1. Instrument Overview ................................................................................ 19

Table of Contents iii

1.1 Operating Principle ................................................................................................... 19

2. Software User Interface ............................................................................ 47

3. Initial Setup ................................................................................................ 59

3.5 Changing the Display Brightness ........................................................................... 62

4. Control Functions ...................................................................................... 65

5. Using the Instrument .............................................................................. 115

6. NORTEC PC Software ............................................................................ 227

6.10 Backing Up the NORTEC 600 Files ...................................................................... 255

7. Maintenance and Troubleshooting ...................................................... 259

Appendix A: Specifications ......................................................................... 263

Appendix B: Accessories, Replacement Parts, and Upgrades ............... 271

List of Figures ................................................................................................. 275

List of Tables ................................................................................................... 283

Index ................................................................................................................. 285

Table of Contents vii

viii Table of Contents

Labels and Symbols

Instruction and rating label (see Table 1 on page 2)

Figure i-1 Label attached to the back of the instrument

Labels and Symbols 1

Serial number location (see Table 1 on page 2)

Figure i-2 Location of the serial number

Table 1 Content of the rating label

This symbol indicates the location of the membrane vent.

The direct current symbol.

The WEEE symbol indicates that the product must not be

2 Labels and Symbols

Table 1 Content of the rating label (continued)

The regulatory compliance mark (RCM) label indicates that

Seller and user shall be noticed that this equipment is suitable

The CE marking is a declaration that this product conforms to

The China RoHS mark indicates the product’s Environment-

Labels and Symbols 3

4 Labels and Symbols

Important Information — Please Read Before Use

The NORTEC 600 is designed to perform nondestructive inspections on industrial

Keep this instruction manual in a safe, accessible location.

Important Information — Please Read Before Use 5

• Rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack (Olympus P/N: 600-BAT-L-3

6 Important Information — Please Read Before Use

Repair and Modification

General warning symbol

Important Information — Please Read Before Use 7

High voltage warning symbol

Safety Signal Words

The DANGER signal word indicates an imminently hazardous situation. It calls

The WARNING signal word indicates a potentially hazardous situation. It calls

The CAUTION signal word indicates a potentially hazardous situation. It calls

8 Important Information — Please Read Before Use

Note Signal Words

Important Information — Please Read Before Use 9